Iran Confirms Seizure of oil Tanker in Strait of Hormuz
TEHRAN – Iran’s Revolutionary Guard confirmed Wednesday, June 26, 2024, that it has seized a tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport. The vessel, identified as the MSC Aries, was taken after Iranian forces rappelled down from a helicopter onto the deck of the Portuguese-flagged cargo ship, according to state media reports.
The seizure escalates already heightened tensions in the region,impacting global energy markets and raising concerns about maritime security. Approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz daily, making it a critical chokepoint. This action follows years of friction between Iran and Western powers, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and raises the specter of further disruptions to international trade.
Iran has a history of seizing vessels in the region. In 2022,Iranian forces detained two greek tankers,holding them for several months before their release in november of that year. The latest seizure comes amid a backdrop of escalating regional instability and Tehran’s repeated threats to close the Strait of Hormuz if provoked.
The U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet, based in Bahrain, maintains a consistent presence in the Mideast to ensure freedom of navigation and protect commercial shipping lanes. The incident occured as tensions flared into a 12-day conflict in June, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.
The MSC Aries was reportedly en route to India when it was intercepted. Details surrounding the crew and cargo remain limited, but Iranian state media indicated the seizure was in response to perceived provocations. The incident is highly likely to prompt international condemnation and calls for de-escalation.
