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“The Panama-flagged M/V Vela Nova attempted to sail through the Gulf of Oman to an Iranian port, in violation of the U.S. blockade against Iran. During this time, CENTCOM forces disabled the vessel’s steering gear,” CENTCOM said.

According to the command, an MH-60 helicopter of the US Navy fired two missiles at the engine room of the ship. A US Navy MH-60 helicopter fired two Hellfire missiles at Vela Nova’s engine room after the ship’s crew ignored repeated warnings from US forces. The American blockade is in full force. Maritime security company Vanguard said in its initial report that the missile hit the ship, causing a fire. However, the fire was later brought under control.

CENTCOM reported that as of August 11, 55 commercial vessels violating the blockade have been diverted, three vessels violating regulations have been disabled, and two vessels have been taken under control. Meanwhile, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR) formally changed leadership in the Middle East on August 11. Major General Kevin Lambert handed over command to Rear Admiral Liam Hulin.

The ceremony marked the official transfer of command of the U.S.-led task force that supports partner forces in operations against ISIS in Iraq and Syria. CJTF-OIR, established by U.S. CENTCOM in 2014, provides advice, assistance, and support to partner forces in operations against ISIS.

Admiral Brad Cooper, Commander, CENTCOM, presided over the ceremony. According to CENTCOM’s ‘X’ post, he underlined the role of the task force, saying that the force is playing an important role in ‘countering terrorism, strengthening partnerships and promoting regional security and stability’.

Cooper also praised Kevin Lambert’s commitment and leadership during his tenure as head of CJTF-OIR. This leadership change comes as the task force continues to work with regional partners to advance efforts to counter the threat posed by ISIS and strengthen security and stability across the region.