BEIJING / TEHRAN: China on Monday expressed “grave concern” over the forced seizure of an Iranian container ship by United States naval forces, calling the ongoing maritime blockade of Iranian ports a “dangerous” escalation that threatens global energy security.
The vessel, identified as the MV Tosca (also reported as Touska), was intercepted on Sunday in the Arabian Sea by the guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance. According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), the 294-metre ship ignored repeated warnings for six hours before the destroyer fired disabling shots into its engine room to halt its propulsion.
The incident, which took place near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, has drawn a sharp rebuke from Tehran. Iranian state media described the boarding by US Marines as “maritime armed robbery” and “piracy.”
“We warn that the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran will soon respond to and retaliate against this armed piracy by the US military,” a statement from Iran’s joint military command read.
The seizure comes at a critical juncture, with a fragile 10-day ceasefire in the region reportedly nearing its expiration on April 22. In the wake of the incident, unverified reports suggested Iranian drone activity directed toward US assets in the area, further heightening fears of a direct military confrontation.
Beijing’s Stance
In Beijing, the Foreign Ministry criticised the move as a violation of international law and maritime norms. China, a major purchaser of Iranian energy, has long opposed unilateral US sanctions and military blockades.
It is pertinent to mention here that the MV Tosca had departed from Klang Port in Malaysia on April 12 and was en route to Bandar Abbas, following a route heavily linked to Chinese trade interests. Chinese officials warned that the blockade of Iranian ports creates “unnecessary risks” for merchant shipping in one of the world’s most vital chokepoints.
Escalating Blockade
US President Donald Trump confirmed the vessel is now in “full custody” and undergoing inspection for alleged illegal cargo. The MV Tosca had previously been placed under US Treasury sanctions.
The US naval blockade, initiated on April 13, aims to completely halt maritime trade to and from Iranian ports. While Washington maintains the blockade is necessary to curb “illegal activities,” analysts warn it could derail potential peace talks in Islamabad.
According to Middle East observers, the Strait of Hormuz remains a primary concern for the global economy, as nearly 20% of the world’s oil passes through the narrow waterway. With the ceasefire set to expire within 48 hours, the seizure of the Tosca may serve as the spark that reignites a broader regional conflict.
