Navy jet fighter disabled an Iran-flagged oil tanker trying to breach U.S. blockade
by Mike Glenn · The Washington TimesThe U.S. Navy fired on an Iranian-flagged oil tanker that was attempting to breach the U.S. maritime blockade of Iran and sail to a port on the Gulf of Oman, U.S. officials said Wednesday.
A Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet launched from the USS Abraham Lincoln fired several rounds at the M/T Hasna after the vessel failed to heed repeated warnings that it was violating the U.S. blockade.
“After Hasna’s crew failed to comply with repeated warnings, U.S. forces disabled the tanker’s rudder by firing several rounds from the 20mm cannon,” U.S. Central Command officials said. “Hasna is no longer transiting to Iran.”
The officials said the blockade of ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports “remains in full effect.”
“Centcom forces continue to act deliberately and professionally to ensure compliance.” Central Command said.
Pentagon officials didn’t say if there were any reported fatalities or injuries after the incident.
• Mike Glenn can be reached at mglenn@washingtontimes.com.