Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has confirmed it seized a tanker on Friday morning in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Talara tanker, sailing under the flag of the Marshall Islands, was travelling from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Singapore.
The IRGC said it was found to be in violation of the law by carrying unauthorized cargo, but did not provide details of the violation. Reports suggest it was carrying high-sulphur gasoil.
Iran has periodically seized tankers and cargo ships travelling in and around the Persian Gulf, a key global shipping route for oil and liquefied natural gas.
It has often cited maritime violations such as smuggling or legal issues.
Maritime security company Ambrey noted the Talara tanker had departed from Ajman in the UAE and was approached by three small boats, leading to a sudden course deviation.
The US Navy's 5th fleet is actively monitoring the situation, emphasizing that commercial vessels are entitled to largely unimpeded rights of navigation on the high seas.
The management of the ship reported losing contact with the crew while the tanker was 20 nautical miles off Sharjah's Khorfakkan port.
The UK's Maritime Trade Operations Centre advised vessels in the area to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity.
Iran has historically threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, which handles about 20% of traded oil, as a response to Western sanctions and actions against it.
Heightened tensions have been evident following a recent conflict involving Israel and Iran, during which threats of maritime disruptions increased.
In April 2024, the IRGC seized a commercial ship linked to Israel following attacks blamed on Israel.
