Monday 20th April, 2026: “SEIZED: US TAKES IRAN’S SHIP AS DEADLINE LOOMS”

Today’s episode covers a pivotal day as the ceasefire countdown enters its final 48 hours. The USS Spruance fired on and seized the Iranian cargo ship MV Touska after six hours of warnings – the first US boarding and seizure of an Iranian vessel in this conflict. Iran called it “armed piracy” and vowed retaliation. Tehran then announced it will NOT attend the second round of talks in Pakistan, demanding the blockade be lifted first. Despite this, Trump sent VP Vance, Witkoff, and Kushner to Islamabad anyway. Trump threatened to destroy every power plant and bridge in Iran if no deal is reached. Iran’s foreign ministry flatly denied ever agreeing to hand over enriched uranium, directly contradicting Trump’s claims. Both sides accuse each other of violating the truce. Lebanon ceasefire enters Day 4. DHS shutdown Day 65.