U.S. Disables Ship Bound for Iran as Ceasefire Deal Awaits Trump Approval

U.S. military forces have escalated enforcement of the maritime blockade against Iran, disabling the Gambian-flagged bulk carrier Lian Star in the Gulf of Oman. According to CENTCOM, the vessel attempted to enter an Iranian port despite more than 20 warnings. This action brings the total number of redirected vessels to 116 as the Trump administration maintains a strict interdiction campaign. Concurrently, reports indicate that Iranian forces may have laid mines in the Strait of Hormuz to deter commercial and military traffic, further heightening regional tensions. On the diplomatic front, negotiators have produced a draft 60-day memorandum of understanding aimed at extending the current ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. While Vice President JD Vance stated the sides are "very close" to a deal, the framework remains unconfirmed pending President Trump’s approval. A central sticking point involves Iran's highly enriched uranium stockpile; the U.S. is demanding its removal or destruction under international supervision, with Kazakhstan reportedly offering to take custody of the material. President Trump reaffirmed his administration's hardline stance via Truth Social, insisting that Iran must never possess a nuclear weapon and must fully surrender its uranium stockpile. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that the U.S. remains "more than capable" of resuming military strikes should diplomacy fail. Iranian officials have expressed frustration with these conditions, suggesting they view the new demands as a pivot away from previous diplomatic progress.