The cargo ship Touska was reportedly carrying "dual-use cargo," possibly for military purposes, when it was intercepted by US forces in the Gulf of Oman.

Fox News reported today, citing US officials, that the Iranian-flagged Touska had made several port calls in Zhuhai, China, then traveled to Malaysia to load more containers before heading towards Bandar Abbas port, prior to being intercepted by the US in the Gulf of Oman.

Reuters, citing sources in maritime security, said the Touska may have been carrying "dual-use cargo" at the time of its seizure. This term refers to materials and equipment that can be used in both civilian and military applications. The US classifies many items, such as chemicals, metals, pipes, and electronic components, as "dual-use."

US speedboats patrol around the cargo ship Touska in the Gulf of Oman on April 20. Photo: CENTCOM

A source added that the ship had transported similar cargo in the past, but did not provide specific details.

CENTCOM, the agency responsible for US military operations in the Middle East, said its forces are inspecting all containers on the Touska, but has not yet released the results.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry today criticized the US Navy's actions as a "violation of international law." Tehran demanded that Washington immediately release the Touska, its crew, and their families, and warned that the US would be held accountable if tensions escalate.

The Touska is owned by the Iranian National Shipping Line (IRISL), a company on the US sanctions list. US President Donald Trump said the Touska is subject to sanctions due to its "history of illegal activities."

On April 19, the destroyer USS Spruance fired on and neutralized the cargo ship Touska, accusing it of attempting to breach the US-imposed blockade. US Marines deployed from the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli subsequently secured the Iranian cargo ship.

Analysts suggest the ship's continued movement, despite warnings from US military vessels, indicates the cargo may be of high priority for Iran. Some experts also note that the route through Southeast Asia, particularly the area near the Singapore Strait, is often used for maritime cargo exchanges between ships.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed concern over the US "forcibly seizing" the Iranian cargo ship, calling on all parties to abide by the ceasefire agreement and act responsibly.