Iran Seizes US-Sanctioned Oil Tanker in Sea of Oman

Iran has announced that its navy intercepted and redirected a US-sanctioned oil tanker to Iranian shores during an operation in the Sea of Oman.

Iran Claims Tanker Carried Its Oil

According to Beyond Time News, Iranian officials said the tanker Ocean Koi was seized during a planned naval mission and escorted toward the country’s southern coast.

In a statement aired on state television, authorities claimed the vessel was attempting to disrupt Iran’s oil exports. Officials also stated that the oil onboard belonged to Iran.

Tanker Linked to Iran’s ‘Shadow Fleet’

The Ocean Koi, a Barbados-flagged vessel, had previously been sanctioned by the US Treasury Department. American authorities accused the tanker of being part of Iran’s “shadow fleet,” a network of ships allegedly used to move oil while bypassing sanctions.

US officials also claimed the vessel had transported large volumes of Iranian fuel products and condensate over recent years.

Oil Prices Jump on Renewed US–Iran Hostilities

Footage Shows Navy Boarding the Vessel

Iranian media released video footage showing naval forces approaching the tanker at night in small boats before boarding it using ladders. The vessel was later redirected toward Iranian waters.

Authorities said the tanker was handed over to judicial officials after arriving at shore.

Concerns Grow Over Regional Security

The incident has renewed concerns over security in key shipping routes near the Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Experts warn that rising tensions in the region could impact global oil supplies and international shipping operations.