Tehran says vessel threatened national oil interests
Iran’s Army announced on Friday that the Iranian Navy seized an oil tanker identified as OCEAN KOI in the Sea of Oman during a special maritime operation. According to an official statement, authorities accused the vessel of attempting to disrupt Iran’s oil exports and damage the country’s economic interests amid heightened regional tensions.
The Army stated that the operation was conducted under a judicial order and in accordance with a resolution issued by Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. Officials said the tanker carried a cargo of Iranian oil at the time of the seizure.
Furthermore, Iranian authorities alleged that the vessel attempted to exploit the current regional situation to interfere with Iran’s oil trade and create economic disruption. However, officials did not immediately disclose the tanker’s ownership details, flag registration, or destination.
Meanwhile, the operation took place as tensions continue escalating in strategic Gulf shipping routes, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz and the Sea of Oman, both vital corridors for global energy supplies.
Iranian officials emphasized that the country remains determined to protect its maritime interests and commercial assets despite increasing regional instability and international pressure surrounding oil shipments.
Commandos escort tanker to Iranian waters
According to the statement, Iranian naval commandos and marines boarded the tanker during the operation and directed it toward Iran’s southern coastal waters. Authorities later handed the vessel over to judicial officials for further legal proceedings and investigation.
In addition, the Iranian Army stressed that the Navy would continue monitoring regional waters and respond firmly to any activity considered harmful to Iran’s national interests. Officials warned that the country would show no leniency toward violators or hostile actions affecting its maritime security or energy exports.
At the same time, the seizure highlighted growing security concerns across Gulf shipping lanes as regional conflicts continue affecting commercial maritime operations and international energy markets.
Iranian authorities have not yet announced whether crew members aboard the tanker remain detained during the ongoing investigation.
