Nikki Haley, the Indian-origin member of US President Donald Trump's Republican Party, has made a strong claim regarding a recently seized Iranian vessel, alleging it was carrying materials linked to missile production. The development adds to rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz amid an ongoing US blockade.
Haley flags China link
In a post on X, Haley said, "The ship the US seized in the Strait of Hormuz this weekend was headed from China to Iran and is linked to chemical shipments for missiles. It refused repeated orders to stop," Haley said in a post on X.
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She also pointed to Beijing's alleged role, adding, "Another reminder that China is helping prop up Iran's regime – a reality that can't be ignored."
US seizes Iranian vessel
US forces intercepted the Iranian-flagged container ship Touska, reportedly part of the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines, which has been under US sanctions since 2019. The vessel was boarded near Chabahar in the Gulf of Oman, according to ship-tracking data.
Washington had earlier described IRISL as "the preferred shipping line for Iranian proliferators and procurement agents", linking it to the transport of materials tied to Iran's ballistic missile programme.
Iran calls move 'armed piracy'
Iran responded sharply to the seizure, accusing the US of "armed piracy". Officials said the vessel had been travelling from China and warned of potential confrontation, though concerns over crew members onboard were cited as a limiting factor.
Tehran also signalled it would not participate in upcoming talks with the US in Islamabad unless the blockade is lifted.
Dual-use cargo under scrutiny
According to US security sources cited by Reuters, early assessments suggest the ship may have been carrying "dual-use" items, goods that can serve both civilian and military purposes. These may include metals, pipes and electronic components, categories previously highlighted by US Central Command.
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While investigations continue, the incident has further complicated an already tense geopolitical situation involving the US, Iran and China.
