As of January 2, 2026, more oil tankers are avoiding Venezuela amid rising U.S. threats to seize vessels linked to President Nicolas Maduro’s regime. Recent movements show at least seven ships have changed routes or halted at sea, negatively impacting Venezuela’s already struggling economy and oil production.
India’s ambitions at Iran’s Chabahar Port face setbacks after the resignation of all government-appointed directors from India Ports Global Ltd amid new US sanctions. With a critical compliance deadline approaching, officials must navigate the dual pressures of financial commitments and geopolitical risks, complicating their strategic initiatives in the region.
The Pioneer tanker, sanctioned by the US for its ties to Russian LNG, recently passed through the Suez Canal. Owned by Zara Shipholding Co, its LNG source and destination remain undisclosed. Shippers avoid the Suez due to security risks, impacting global trade routes and fuel deliveries. US sanctions target companies involved in Russia’s Arctic LNG 2 project.
The U.S. Department of Treasury imposed sanctions on entities and vessels involved in shipping Iranian oil to Syria and East Asia for Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and Hezbollah. Mallah brothers’ ships were targeted for supporting Iran’s malign activities. The Treasury aims to disrupt funding for terrorist groups and prevent further support for Iran’s proxies.
The deputy director of Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization confirmed the crew of the seized Portuguese-flagged container ship MSC Aries is in good health. The Revolutionary Guard intercepted the ship in the Strait of Hormuz, linked to an Israeli-owned company. Consular access has been granted, and the crew is expected to be released soon.
