India Seizes 3 Iran-Linked Oil Tankers Amid US Sanctions Crackdown

Published on: 17 Feb 2026 at 07:00 AM

Published by: thefactnews

India Seizes 3 Iran-Linked Oil Tankers Amid US Sanctions Crackdown

Mumbai, February 17, 2026
India’s Coast Guard seized three US-sanctioned tankers tied to Iran in its maritime zone, targeting illicit trade. Move aligns with improving US-India ties; US cut Indian import tariffs to 18% from 50%.

Seized Vessels

Identities: Stellar Ruby, Asphalt Star, Al Jafzia. Frequently changed flags/IMO numbers to evade detection. LSEG data: Al Jafzia carried Iranian fuel oil to Djibouti (2025); Stellar Ruby Iranian-flagged; Asphalt Star China routes. Intercepted ~100nm off Mumbai.

Maritime Surveillance Boost

Deployment: ~55 Coast Guard ships, 10-12 aircraft patrolling EEZ. Focus: Block ship-to-ship transfers masking sanctioned oil origins. Owners overseas; probes ongoing.

Iran’s Denial: State media claims no links to vessels/cargo.

Sanctions Context

US OFAC sanctioned identical IMO numbers last year (Global Peace, Chil 1, Glory Star 1). Part of 30-tanker “shadow fleet” by UAE’s Jugwinder Singh Brar (sanctioned 2025). India enforces transparency, aids global sanctions regime.