Ask Onix
Iran's Revolutionary Guards Seize Tanker in Strait of Hormuz
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed on Friday the seizure of a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker, the Talara, in the Strait of Hormuz, alleging it carried "unauthorized cargo" in violation of maritime law. The vessel was en route from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Singapore when intercepted.
Incident Details and Maritime Response
According to maritime security firm Ambrey, the Talara departed from Ajman, UAE, before being approached by three small boats near the Strait of Hormuz, prompting a "sudden course deviation." The ship's management company reported losing contact with the crew approximately 20 nautical miles off Sharjah's Khorfakkan port.
The US Navy's 5th Fleet, which oversees regional patrols, stated it was "actively monitoring the situation," emphasizing that "commercial vessels are entitled to unimpeded navigation rights on the high seas." The UK's Maritime Trade Operations Centre urged ships to "transit with caution" and report suspicious activity.
Context: Iran's History of Seizures and Regional Tensions
The seizure aligns with Iran's recurring detentions of vessels in the Persian Gulf, often citing smuggling or legal violations. The Strait of Hormuz-a critical chokepoint for 20% of global oil trade-has been a flashpoint for Iranian threats, particularly amid Western sanctions and escalating conflicts.
Tensions surged in June 2025 during a 12-day clash with Israel, where US-Israeli airstrikes targeted Iran's nuclear sites, and Iran retaliated with strikes on Israel. Earlier, in April 2024, the IRGC seized an Israel-linked ship following an attack on Iran's consulate in Syria, blamed on Israel.
Cargo and Allegations
While the IRGC did not specify the violation, reports suggest the Talara was transporting high-sulfur gasoil. Iran has previously justified seizures by claiming adherence to maritime regulations, though critics argue such actions disrupt global shipping and violate international norms.
"Commercial vessels are entitled to largely unimpeded rights of navigation and commerce on the high seas."
US Navy 5th Fleet
