Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has confirmed that it seized a tanker early Friday morning in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
The vessel, identified as the Talara, was flagged under the Marshall Islands and was en route from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Singapore when it was intercepted.
The IRGC reported that the vessel was in violation of maritime law by carrying unauthorized cargo, though specifics regarding the nature of the violation were not disclosed. It is believed to be carrying high-sulphur gasoil.
This incident underscores Iran's ongoing pattern of seizing vessels in and around Persian Gulf waters, a vital channel for global oil and gas shipments.
Reports indicate that the Talara tanker had departed from Ajman, UAE, and was approached by three small boats from the IRGC, prompting a sudden change in course.
The U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet, which monitors the region, confirmed they are keeping a close watch on the situation, emphasizing that commercial vessels should enjoy largely unimpeded rights to navigation on the high seas.
The operator of the Talara reported losing contact with the crew while the vessel was 20 nautical miles off the coast of Sharjah's Khorfakkan port. The UK's Maritime Trade Operations Centre has urged vessels in the region to exercise caution and to report any suspicious activities.
The Strait of Hormuz has been a flashpoint in geopolitical tensions, and Iran has long threatened to disrupt shipping in the area, especially in response to Western sanctions and military actions against it.
Recent events have seen heightened threats from Iran, particularly following a series of regional conflicts, including a recent escalation in tensions with Israel during a conflict that saw substantial military activity involving both nations. In April 2024, the IRGC also seized a commercial ship linked to Israel following an attack on Iran's diplomatic facilities.
