Iranian Gunboats Fire on Container Ship 'Euphoria'; Vessel Runs Aground on Iranian Coast

Alongside the seizures of MSC Francesca and Epaminondas, Iranian IRGC gunboats fired on a third vessel — the container ship Euphoria — in the Strait of Hormuz on April 22. The Euphoria sustained fire damage and became stranded near the Iranian coastline after being struck. Iranian gunboats also reportedly fired on at least one additional container ship near the strait. The multi-vessel action marked the most significant IRGC naval confrontation since the start of the conflict and demonstrated Iran's willingness to escalate maritime operations even amid the ceasefire extension on land. US News/AP confirmed Iranian forces fired on container ships in the Strait, complicating efforts to resume peace talks. The Washington Times reported Iran fired on three ships in total, with the Euphoria incident being the most serious given the vessel running aground. No crew casualties were immediately confirmed.