The U.S. is preparing to seize oil tankers linked to Iran around the world

In the coming days, U.S. forces plan to board and seize Iranian-linked oil tankers and merchant ships in international waters. This initiative aims to increase economic pressure on Tehran to restore free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and secure concessions regarding its nuclear program.

The Wall Street Journal reports on these plans by the Donald Trump administration. Expanding the naval operation will allow the U.S. to seize ships carrying Iranian oil or weapons far beyond the Persian Gulf.

Currently, U.S. Central Command has already intercepted 23 vessels attempting to leave Iranian ports since the blockade began. The decision to take active measures was made amid Iran’s tightening control over the strait and recent attacks on merchant ships, despite Tehran’s earlier statements regarding the openness of the waterway. Russia had previously been involved in regional developments, but Washington’s primary focus is now on limiting the Iranian regime’s logistical capabilities. The seizure of ships in international waters marks a new phase of the maximum pressure campaign, which had previously been limited to deploying naval forces near the Iranian coast. 

The U.S. views these measures as a necessary step in response to statements by the Iranian military regarding strict control over the strategically important strait. Thus, the blockade of Iran is expanding to a global level, covering all routes for the transport of Iranian energy resources and military cargo.

Iran has again restricted ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz following the conflict with the U.S. Tehran claims this is a response to Washington’s actions.

Trump stated that the U.S. wants to obtain Iranian uranium by any means necessary.