In the Gulf of Oman, an oil tanker embroiled in the US-Iran conflict was reportedly intercepted by masked individuals wearing army uniforms.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations reported a communication loss with the vessel, identified as St Nikolas, citing “unknown voices.” Tensions escalated due to Houthi rebel attacks disrupting shipping in the nearby Red Sea.
Ambrey identified the boarders as “six military men.” The incident unfolded in the waters between Oman and Iran, a critical passage for global oil trade, and the Strait of Hormuz, a pivotal route previously witnessing ship seizures by Iran. There is no immediate response from Iran and Oman regarding the boarding. St Nikolas, previously named Suez Rajan, is associated with the Greek shipping company Empire Navigation. Suspicions arose that the tanker may have transported oil from Iran’s Khargh Island.
The vessel previously discharged cargo in Texas under a Justice Department order. In September, Empire Navigation admitted guilt in smuggling sanctioned Iranian crude oil and agreed to a $2.4 million fine related to the tanker incident.
