UK Says Marshall Islands Tanker Diverted Into Iranian Waters After Suspected Interception

Overview

• The UK Maritime Trade Operations Centre warned of a “probably very selective” event and classified it as a suspect incident.
• The Talara Crude, sailing from the United Arab Emirates to Singapore, reportedly changed course after three small boats intercepted it.
• Security firm Ambrey located the vessel 22 nautical miles east of Khor Fakkan and reported a diversion in the Gulf of Oman.
• Reuters reported the tanker may have been escorted by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, a claim not publicly confirmed by Tehran.
• Vessel tracking showed a sudden turn toward Iranian waters, and a U.S. Navy MQ-4C Triton drone patrolled the area as UAE officials offered no comment.