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U.S., U.K. Say Iran Seized Marshall Islands-Flagged Tanker Talara Near Strait of Hormuz

U.S., U.K. officials cite drone surveillance plus maritime alerts as evidence the ship was forced toward Iranian waters.

Overview

  • A U.S. defense official said Iranian forces intercepted the Talara as it sailed from Ajman to Singapore and diverted it into Iranian waters.
  • UK Maritime Trade Operations labeled the event probable state activity after the tanker abruptly turned toward Iran about 20–22 nautical miles east of Khor Fakkan.
  • Flight-tracking data showed a U.S. Navy MQ-4C Triton monitoring the interception for hours over the Gulf of Oman.
  • Cyprus-based Columbia Shipmanagement reported losing contact around 08:22 local time and said crew safety is its priority while it coordinates with authorities.
  • Maritime security firms reported three small boats approached before the course change, and Iran has not publicly commented on the incident, which follows a pattern of prior seizures in the area.