By agency reports
Iranian armed speedboats attempted to intercept and stop U.S.-flagged oil tanker Stena Imperative in the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. and maritime security sources said.
At least six fast-attack boats, equipped with heavy machine guns, closed in at close range and ordered the tanker to halt for inspection while it was en route to Bahrain’s Sitra port.
The tanker refused to comply, increased speed, and maintained course until U.S. Navy warships intervened, escorting the vessel safely out of the high-risk zone.
The incident underscores the growing risk of direct U.S.–Iran confrontation in one of the world’s most critical global energy chokepoints.
