The US military conducted a 'love tap' on an Iranian tanker by strafing its rudder with a 20mm cannon, disabling its steering without causing an explosion or oil spill. This action was taken after the tanker ignored radio warnings to stay out of restricted waters. The goal was to stop the vessel without escalating conflict or creating an environmental disaster.
Impact: Medium. This precise military action highlights a strategy of de-escalation and minimal force, aiming to assert control without triggering wider conflict. It raises questions about the effectiveness of such non-lethal interventions in deterring future transgressions.
In the source video, this keypoint occurs from 00:24:16 to 00:27:19.
Sources in support: Patrick Bet-David (Host), Vinnie (Panelist)

