11 Jan 2024 | 01:08 PM UTC
Gulf of Oman: Iranian authorities acknowlegede seizure of an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, Jan. 11 /update 1
Iran's naval forces seized an oil tanker east of Sohar, Oman, in the Gulf of Oman, Jan. 11.
Iranian authorities have acknowledged that the country's naval forces seized an "American" vessel in the Gulf of Oman early Jan. 11. Officials have not cited the precise reason but have said that the vessel was seized following a court order. The vessel, St. Nikolas, was reportedly carrying Iraqi oil and was located 50 nautical miles (92 km) east of Sohar when the incident occurred. The vessel is operated by Athens-based Empire Navigation. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), at least four to five men boarded the ship around 03:30 GMT.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran and regular missile and drone launches against commercial ships by the Al-Houthis in the Red Sea. The Iranian government has previously seized vessels on the grounds that they were transporting oil illegally.
Authorities will almost certainly heighten security measures in the vicinity of the Gulf of Oman and the Red Sea over the coming days. Consequent disruptions to shipping are likely.
Exercise caution and consider preparing security measures if transiting through the Gulf of Oman and the Red Sea. Report all suspicious activity to relevant authorities.
