Tensions in the world’s busiest maritime chokepoint have escalated after the Iranian Navy seized an international oil tanker in the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz. The seizure of the vessel carrying a significant amount of cargo was confirmed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy.
According to Iranian media, the IRGC Navy confirmed taking control of the cargo ship, which was sailing under the flag of the Marshall Islands, citing “violation of maritime law” in the Gulf of Oman. The vessel was reportedly transporting 30,000 tons of petrochemicals and was traveling from the UAE state of Ajman to Singapore.
The seizure of commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments, is a persistent source of international concern. Following the incident, the US Navy announced that it is assessing the situation to ensure the safety and freedom of navigation for international shipping in the area.
The action coincides with a firm political stance from Tehran, which recently reiterated that it will not succumb to external pressure regarding its nuclear program, suggesting a continued period of heightened diplomatic and military tension in the region.
