United States military forces have reportedly seized at least three Iranian oil tankers from waters near several Asian countries, according to shipping and security sources.
The vessels were intercepted near the coasts of India, Malaysia and Sri Lanka and are being redirected from their original destinations. The move comes amid ongoing US restrictions on maritime trade linked to Iran’s oil exports through sea routes, including those connected to the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian ports.
The development follows heightened tensions in the region, including earlier incidents in which Tehran allegedly fired upon three vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global energy supplies. Around one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas shipments pass through this waterway, and any disruption has significant implications for international energy markets.
The reported seizures come nearly two months after the outbreak of hostilities involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Since then, there has been no indication of renewed peace negotiations between the parties.
According to shipping and maritime security sources cited by Reuters, one of the seized vessels is a very large crude carrier named Deep Sea, which had gone missing approximately one week earlier near the Malaysian coast. Two other tankers, identified as Sevin and Dorena, were also seized. The Dorena was reportedly carrying around two million barrels of crude oil while positioned near the Indian coast.
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the Dorena is currently under escort by a US warship in the Indian Ocean after allegedly attempting to violate restrictions imposed on Iranian port operations. CENTCOM further reported that since the imposition of these restrictions, it has forced 29 vessels to return to port.
The statement also indicated that US forces are targeting Iranian vessels at sea to avoid threats associated with Iranian military activity and floating mines.
In parallel developments, Iranian authorities have stated that they seized two container ships while they were departing through the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday. This marks the first reported Iranian seizure of vessels since the escalation of hostilities began.
Summary of Reported Vessel Activity
| Vessel Name | Type | Cargo / Status | Location (reported) | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deep Sea | Very large crude carrier | Not specified | Near Malaysia coast | Seized / diverted |
| Sevin | Tanker | Not specified | Not specified | Seized / diverted |
| Dorena | Oil tanker | ~2 million barrels of crude oil | Near India coast | Under US naval escort in Indian Ocean |
The Strait of Hormuz remains a strategic chokepoint, and recent maritime incidents have contributed to continued tensions in the region, alongside disruptions to global energy shipping routes. According to Reuters, both US and Indian shipping-related sources have provided information regarding the vessel seizures and ongoing maritime operations.