Iran’s Revolutionary Guards seized two foreign tankers in the Persian Gulf on Monday, reportedly carrying over 3 million liters (792,516 U.S. gallons) of smuggled diesel fuel. The tankers, with 25 crew members, were engaged in organized fuel smuggling in the central waters of the Persian Gulf. The nationality of the tankers and the status of the crew members detained were not disclosed by Iranian state media. The vessels are being transferred to the country’s Bushehr port under a judicial order issued by Mehdi Mehrangiz, a senior judiciary official at Bushehr province.
Iran, known for having some of the world’s lowest fuel prices due to heavy subsidies and currency devaluation, has been combating rampant fuel smuggling by land to neighboring countries and by sea to Gulf Arab states. The seizure of these tankers highlights Iran’s efforts to crack down on illegal fuel trafficking activities. The country’s Revolutionary Guards are taking decisive action to prevent the smuggling of valuable resources and maintain control over its territorial waters in the Persian Gulf.
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Iran in curbing illicit activities in its maritime domain. With its strategic location in the Persian Gulf, Iran is a key player in the region’s energy trade and security. The seizure of foreign tankers carrying smuggled diesel fuel demonstrates Iran’s commitment to upholding maritime laws and safeguarding its national interests. The country’s actions send a strong message to potential violators of its laws and regulations, emphasizing the importance of respecting international maritime norms in the Persian Gulf region.
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