Overview
- The Marinera, formerly Bella-1, entered the Moray Firth under US Coast Guard escort for resupply after its North Atlantic seizure.
- Britain confirmed support for the US operation and Yvette Cooper pledged stronger enforcement in coordination with European allies.
- Officials are examining legal grounds for military-led interdictions, with reports indicating the Special Boat Service would lead boardings when authorized.
- Despite recent actions, at least 18 sanctioned or suspect tankers transited the English Channel since 7 January, with 160 such passages since August, according to analysis.
- Trackers and experts cite global shadow-fleet activity, deceptive flag practices and armed guards, and warn individual seizures have limited impact and heighten environmental and escalation risks.