Iranian officials recently seized a foreign oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, confiscating over 2 million liters of suspected smuggled fuel. The vessel’s 17-member crew, including the captain, has been arrested. The ship’s identity is undisclosed, as authorities conduct tests to confirm the fuel’s type and legality.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has urged the Joint Negotiation Group to classify the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman as warlike operating zones. This would allow seafarers to refuse dangerous passage, prioritizing safety. Rising military presence and incidents of drone attacks highlight the escalating risks faced by maritime crews.
A fire was reported on a vessel in the Gulf of Oman, about 22 nautical miles off Khor Fakkan, UAE, amid escalating Iran-Israel tensions. UK-based Ambrey confirmed awareness of the incident, while NASA’s FIRMS detected three active fire zones. The cause remains unclear, and no official statements have been made yet.
The Marshall Islands-flagged tanker seized by Iran in the Gulf of Oman was located east of Iran’s Qeshm island, carrying Iraqi crude oil destined for Turkey. The US had previously seized the same ship and its Iranian oil cargo, prompting Iran to take action. The incident coincides with attacks by Iran-backed Houthi militias in Yemen.
