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U.S. forces have retained custody of an Iranian-flagged container ship in the Gulf of Oman, three days after seizing the ship on Sunday and one day before a ceasefire between Iran and the United States is set to lapse, escalating tensions between the two countries. The Iranian-flagged container ship Touska is likely to have what Washington deems dual-use items, maritime security sources told Reuters.

The vessel, operated by Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL), was intercepted near Iran’s Chabahar port after reportedly failing to comply with repeated warnings issued over a six-hour period. United States Central Command stated that the ship was in violation of a U.S.-imposed naval blockade.

On Tuesday, Iran’s foreign ministry said the ship’s seizure was “unlawful and a violation” of international law, describing the Touska as a strictly civilian commerical vessel.

Suspected Dual-Use Cargo

Security sources told Reuters that the Touska was likely carrying “dual-use” goods—materials that can serve both civilian and military purposes—following a voyage from Asia. Such items may include metals, industrial piping, and electronic components, which U.S. authorities have previously identified as sensitive under sanctions enforcement.

The sources did not specify the exact cargo but noted that the vessel had transported similar materials in the past.

The Iranian-flagged container ship was sanctioned by the Treasury Department in 2020, during President Trump’s first term in office. Treasury officials said at the time that they were targeting the 960-foot-long vessel over links to Iran’s financial entities and weapons programs.

Expanding U.S. Maritime Enforcement

The interception comes as the United States broadens its naval enforcement measures against Iran. In a recent advisory, the U.S. Navy stated that vessels suspected of carrying contraband to Iran may be subject to search under the “belligerent right to visit and search.”

U.S. President Donald Trump said the Touska had a “prior history of illegal activity” and that U.S. forces were inspecting its cargo.

On Monday, U.S. Central Command reported that the U.S. Navy has turned back 27 ships trying to enter Iranian ports since the American blockade began about a week ago.

JD Vance to Islamabad

U.S. Vice President JD Vance was expected to return to Islamabad Tuesday to resume talks with Iran’s negotiating team, just over a week since the first round of talks ended without a deal. Pakistan’s government said it was deploying thousands of security officers to ensure negotiators’ safety.

Iran has publically sent mixed signals on talks, with some officials vowing to break off contact while others signal willingness to extend the ceasefire and continue negoations. On Tuesday, Iran’s state broadcaster said no delegation, either primary or secondary had been sent to negotiate in Islamabad.