- India,
- 22-Apr-2026 06:09 PM IST
Iran has executed a retaliatory strike against Israel and the United States within 48 hours of a maritime confrontation. Following the US seizure of an Iranian vessel two days ago, Iran has claimed control over two ships linked to Israel in the Strait of Hormuz. The operation was reportedly carried out using fast boats to intercept and board the vessels.
IRGC Operation and Vessel Identification
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) intercepted and took control of two ships flying the flags of Liberia and Panama. The seized vessels have been identified as the MSC-FRANCESCA and the EPAMINODES, while according to Iranian authorities, the action was taken due to the violation of maritime regulations in the Strait of Hormuz. On top of that, Iranian media reports suggest that a Greek vessel was also targeted, though its current status regarding seizure remains unconfirmed.
Background of the US-Iran Maritime Conflict
The escalation follows an incident on Sunday, April 20, when US forces attacked and seized an Iranian vessel. According to US media and CENTCOM, the Iranian ship was transporting missile-manufacturing components from China, while cENTCOM continues to maintain control over that vessel. In response, IRGC forces utilized boats to surround the two ships near Oman, initiated firing, and subsequently took them into custody. The IRGC's official statement explicitly linked these vessels to the 'Zionist regime'.
Iran's New 12-Point Strategic Plan for Hormuz
Parallel to the military action, Iran has introduced a 12-point legislative plan in its parliament on Wednesday. Once ratified, this plan aims to enforce strict control over the Strait of Hormuz.
While the specific cargo on the MSC-FRANCESCA and EPAMINODES has not been disclosed, the IRGC maintains that the seizure is a direct consequence of regulatory breaches and a response to recent American aggression, while the situation remains tense as the 12-point plan awaits parliamentary approval for full implementation.
