On the morning of May 6, 2026, U.S. forces operating in the Gulf of Oman enforced blockade measures against the M/T Hasna, described as an unladen Iranian-flagged oil tanker. According to CENTCOM, the vessel was observed transiting international waters shortly before it was disabled.

Upon noticing the tanker’s violation of the U.S.-imposed blockade, American forces issued multiple warnings. After the crew of Hasna failed to comply, a U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet, launched from the USS Abraham Lincoln, fired several rounds from a 20mm cannon to disable the ship's rudder. CENTCOM confirmed that the tanker is no longer en route to Iran.

This action falls within the context of ongoing tensions in the region, particularly following U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iranian positions that began in late February. The U.S. has maintained a blockade in the Gulf of Oman designed to restrict Iranian naval movements and to ensure compliance with international maritime regulations.

Since the blockade's implementation, U.S. forces claim to have directed numerous vessels trying to enter or exit Iranian ports back to their origin. This incident underscores the escalating maritime confrontations in the region, particularly in and around the Strait of Hormuz, which is vital for global oil shipments.

As negotiations between the U.S. and Iran remain fragile, CENTCOM has reiterated its commitment to enforcing the blockade to maintain order and security in the region amidst these complex geopolitical dynamics.