Tanker Seizure Incident Unfolds Near Strategic Strait of Hormuz

Recently, Iranian forces have taken control of a tanker flying a foreign flag close to the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by Ambrey, a British maritime security firm.

On Tuesday, Ambrey issued an alert stating that a product tanker registered in Panama had signaled distress about 50 nautical miles northwest of Bandar-e Jask, situated on the Gulf of Oman side of the Strait. The vessel claimed it was experiencing a “hijacking.”

After sending out the initial distress signal,communication attempts via VHF radio went unanswered. An hour later, its AIS signals became erratic while it was en route toward the Strait.

The specific name of the tanker wasn’t disclosed by Ambrey; however, it’s associated with UAE interests and is thought to be part of what’s known as Iran’s “shadow fleet.” Notably, one similar ship has been sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury for breaching American restrictions against Iran.

The details surrounding this reported “hijacking” remain murky. However,there’s no shortage of instances where vessels have been unexpectedly stopped near Iranian waters. Often these actions are attributed to local law enforcement efforts. Iran frequently intercepts ships suspected of engaging in fuel smuggling—a major issue impacting its economy. With some of the highest gasoline and diesel subsidies globally,many traders exploit these low prices in Iran to sell fuel at higher rates across borders. While most smuggling occurs overland, some operations do take place at sea.