Iran Seizes Foreign Oil Tanker in Gulf Over Fuel Smuggling Allegations
Iranian state media reported on Friday, December 26, 2025, that Iranian authorities have seized a foreign oil tanker in Gulf waters near Qeshm Island, suspecting it of being involved in the smuggling of large quantities of fuel.
According to state television and Reuters, the tanker was carrying approximately 4 million liters of smuggled fuel, although officials have not disclosed the vessel's name or its flag state.
Official sources indicated that 16 crew members, all foreign nationals, have been detained and charged with crimes, noting that the arrest operation took place last Wednesday.
In this context, Iranian news outlets have released videos and images purportedly belonging to the seized tanker, but they have not provided additional details regarding its destination or the organization behind the smuggling operation.
This incident follows a recent announcement from Tehran regarding the seizure of another foreign tanker in the Gulf of Oman, which was carrying 6 million liters of smuggled fuel, also without revealing its identity or flag state.
Iran is seeking to strengthen its measures against fuel smuggling, which has been increasing both overland to neighboring countries and by sea to Gulf nations, taking advantage of Iran's low fuel prices due to substantial government subsidies and the significant devaluation of its currency, making fuel smuggling a lucrative venture for trafficking networks.
