- US seized vessel traveling from China to Iran.
- Ship allegedly carried chemical materials for missiles.
US Republican leader Nikki Haley on Tuesday claimed that the a vessel seized by the United States following the imposition of a naval blockade had been travelling from China to Iran, allegedly carrying chemical materials linked to missile production.
In a post on X, she stated: “The ship the US seized in the Strait of Hormuz this weekend was headed from China to Iran and is linked to chemical shipments for missiles.”
The ship the U.S. seized in the Strait of Hormuz this weekend was headed from China to Iran and is linked to chemical shipments for missiles.
It refused repeated orders to stop.
Another reminder that China is helping prop up Iran’s regime—a reality that can’t be ignored.
— Nikki Haley (@NikkiHaley) April 20, 2026
“It refused repeated orders to stop. Another reminder that China is helping prop up Iran’s regime—a reality that can’t be ignored,” she added.
Meanwhile, Iran has described the seizure as “armed piracy” and warned of retaliation. Ahead of the talks in Islamabad, the US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and the capture of the Iranian-flagged vessel MV Touska have emerged as key sticking points.
Tehran has made it clear it will not participate in the second round of discussions with the United States in Islamabad unless the blockade is lifted. In contrast, Donald Trump has remained firm, stating the blockade will only be removed once a deal is reached. Meanwhile, the US–Iran ceasefire is due to expire on Thursday morning (Indian time), with no agreement yet in sight.
