Risks of conflict in the Gulf of Oman are rising after the US Navy fired on an Iranian-flagged cargo ship, though analysts say both Washington and Tehran have shown a reluctance to prolong the war.
US President Donald Trump on Sunday confirmed that the guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance opened fire on the Touska after its crew reportedly ignored repeated orders to halt.
The incident, occurring in the strategic waters connecting the Persian Gulf to the open sea via the Strait of Hormuz, marks the first known use of force against a vessel since the American naval blockade of Iran began last Friday.
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It prompted Tehran to accuse Washington of violating a fragile two-week ceasefire that is set to expire this Wednesday.
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On Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun expressed “concern” over the US interception of the vessel, while emphasising the “sensitive and complex” situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
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