The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has confirmed the seizure of a tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. The vessel, identified as the Talara and sailing under the flag of the Marshall Islands, was traveling from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Singapore at the time of the incident. According to the IRGC, the tanker was found to be in violation of the law for carrying unauthorized cargo, although specific details of the alleged violation have not been disclosed. Reports indicate that the Talara may have been carrying high-sulphur gasoil.
This incident comes amid a backdrop of periodic tanker seizures by Iran in the Gulf region, a key global shipping route for oil and liquefied natural gas. The country has often justified such actions by claiming maritime violations, including smuggling. Sources from the maritime security company Ambrey noted that the Talara had recently departed from Ajman in the UAE and was intercepted by three small boats, prompting a sudden change in its course.
The US Navy's 5th Fleet, responsible for patrolling the area, stated that it was actively monitoring the situation, reiterating that commercial vessels have the right to navigate freely in international waters.
The management of the Talara reported losing contact with the crew shortly after the seizure, which occurred approximately 20 nautical miles off Sharjah's Khorfakkan port. In response to the incident, the UK's Maritime Trade Operations Centre urged vessels to exercise caution and promptly report any unusual activities.
Iran has long threatened to disrupt traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of the world's traded oil passes, as a tactic to retaliate against Western sanctions and military actions. Tensions escalated significantly during a recent conflict involving Israel, which subsequently saw Iran take retaliatory measures against Israeli interests, including the seizure of a commercial ship linked to Israel earlier this year.
