Washington, DC – Reuters reported that six armed Iranian boats approached a US oil tanker as it transited the Strait of Hormuz,
an incident that heightened tensions in one of the world’s most strategic energy shipping lanes.
The agency quoted maritime and security sources as saying that Iranian boats directly ordered
the tanker to stop while it was in international waters in the strait.
US Navy vessels then intervened and closely monitored the situation.
This prevented an immediate escalation or the seizure of the vessel.
widespread international concern
According to reports, the vessel approached was the British-flagged tanker Stena Imperative.
It was en route to transit the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes.
Therefore, any security incident there is a matter of widespread international concern.
The sources added that the crew adhered to established maritime safety procedures,
and the tanker continued its voyage after a period of tension, without any reported damage or injuries.
This occurred while the incident was closely monitored by naval forces deployed in the area.
This incident comes amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States over a complex web of political and security issues.
These issues include sanctions and the US military presence in the Gulf.
Previous incidents targeting commercial vessels and oil tankers have also occurred in recent years.
The incident increases tension in the region.
For its part, Iranian authorities did not immediately issue an official comment on the Reuters report.
Tehran, however, has repeatedly asserted that its actions in the Strait of Hormuz are part of
what it describes as “protecting its national security” and monitoring navigation in its territorial waters.
Observers warn that a recurrence of such incidents could escalate tensions in the region and impact global trade and energy prices.
At this time, international actors are calling for restraint and for freedom of navigation
in vital waterways to be guaranteed, in accordance with international law.
