US President Donald Trump said the United States had established “full control” over the strategically important Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Trump said the situation in Iran was progressing well. At the same time, US forces disabled the Panama-flagged cargo vessel Vela Nova with missiles as it was heading toward an Iranian port, further raising tensions around the waterway.

The US military said the vessel ignored repeated warnings. A US Navy helicopter fired two Hellfire missiles, striking the ship’s engine room and leaving it disabled. US officials said the vessel had been attempting to breach a naval blockade imposed on Iran, prompting the use of military force. All 17 crew members were safe, and no casualties were reported.

Commercial shipping through Hormuz has not returned to normal despite Trump’s claim. Only six ships passed through the strait on Monday, compared with roughly 130 to 140 vessels daily before the war. Sources said Iran and Oman were discussing the waterway’s future management, while Iran and the United States remain divided over war compensation and other conditions.