The newly extended ceasefire between the United States and Iran is already under severe strain following reports that at least two cargo vessels came under fire in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint for global energy and trade flows.
According to the U.K. Maritime Traffic Organization, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard opened fire without warning on a container ship, causing significant damage to its bridge structure. The incident has raised fresh concerns over maritime security in the region.
A second incident was reported just west of Iran, where another outbound cargo vessel was struck. The ship later reported it “is now stopped in the water.”
Iranian state-aligned media has also reported retaliatory maritime actions. The semi-official Tasnim news agency stated that the Revolutionary Guard’s navy seized two “violating vessels” and transferred them to Iran’s coast. The ships were identified as the MSC Francesca and Epaminondas, both linked to global shipping operator MSC.
Separately, a Greek-owned vessel named Euphoria is reportedly stranded along Iran’s shoreline. According to Fars news agency, MarineTraffic data suggests the ship passed through the Strait of Hormuz before making unusual maneuvers earlier in the day.
Iranian officials have previously warned they could shut down traffic through the strait if the United States does not lift restrictions on Iranian shipping and port access, escalating fears of a broader maritime confrontation.
The incidents come just hours after President Donald Trump extended the temporary ceasefire, originally set to expire Wednesday. The extension, announced on Truth Social, followed a request attributed to Pakistan and is intended to remain in place until Iran submits a proposal and negotiations conclude.
Despite the extension, tensions remain high. Iranian officials have issued warnings that if fighting resumes with the United States or Israel, they will deliver what they describe as “crushing and unimaginable blows” to remaining targets in the region.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts appear to be stalling. Vice President JD Vance’s planned visit to Islamabad has been postponed after Iran did not send a delegation for talks. Iranian officials maintain they will not negotiate under pressure, citing the ongoing U.S. blockade.
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