Iran Seizes Tanker, Arrests Crew for Smuggling Oil

Iranian authorities seized a foreign-flagged tanker near Qeshm Island in the Persian Gulf, accusing it of carrying 4 million liters of smuggled oil. According to Tehran, the operation took place on Wednesday.

The 16 crew members, all foreigners, were arrested and face criminal charges. Iran faces fuel smuggling due to low prices caused by state subsidies.

Iran has not released information regarding the name of the ship or its flag.

See the video:

Iran has just seized an oil tanker and kidnapped the crew of over a dozen men in the Persian Gulf. Piracy on the open seas. pic.twitter.com/vscAjcFeH3

— Ian Miles Cheong (@ianmiles) December 26, 2025