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Crisis Response

Khmer Rouge Seize U.S. Merchant Ship SS Mayaguez

On May 12, 1975 the Khmer Rouge seized the U.S.-flagged container ship SS Mayaguez and its crew in waters near Cambodian-held Koh Tang, creating an international incident.

Khmer Rouge Seize U.S. Merchant Ship SS Mayaguez

The seizure provoked an urgent U.S. government response and became a focal point of post‑Vietnam War policy, testing U.S. resolve and crisis management in Southeast Asia.

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