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Monday 20 April 2026

US attacks Iranian ship trying to use Strait of Hormuz

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Iran has accused the US of violating the ceasefire in the Gulf by firing on an Iranian cargo vessel attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz. According to Donald Trump, an American destroyer blew “a hole” in the ship’s engine room after it ignored warnings to stop. It was then boarded by marines. The incident is the first time US forces have taken custody of a ship since they began their blockade of Iranian ports a week ago, although more than 20 other vessels have been turned around. Hopes were raised that a peace deal could be struck after Iran temporarily lifted its own embargo on Friday. It quickly reversed the decision after the US kept its blockade in place. Fresh talks due to begin in Islamabad today are now in doubt. The US plans to send a delegation but Iranian state media said last night that Tehran will not.

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