India Seizes US-Sanctioned Tankers Linked to Iran
India has taken a significant step in cracking down on illicit trade by seizing three US-sanctioned tanker ships linked to Iran in February. The move is part of the country’s efforts to prevent its waters from being used for ship-to-ship transfers that obscure the origin of oil cargoes.
The seizures and heightened surveillance follow an improvement in US-India relations, with Washington announcing a reduction in import tariffs on Indian goods earlier in February. New Delhi has agreed to stop Russian oil imports as part of this agreement.
Vessels’ History Revealed
The sanctioned vessels, Stellar Ruby, Asphalt Star, and Al Jafzia, had frequently changed their identities to evade law enforcement by coastal states. Their owners were based overseas, making it challenging for authorities to track their activities. The Indian authorities detected suspicious activity involving a tanker in India‘s exclusive economic zone and intercepted the three vessels about 100 nautical miles west of Mumbai.
The post on social media platform X announcing the interception was later deleted, but sources have confirmed that the vessels were escorted to Mumbai for further investigation. The Indian Coast Guard has since deployed about 55 ships and 10 to 12 aircraft for round-the-clock surveillance in its maritime zones.
US Sanctions and IMO Numbers
The US Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctioned three tankers with IMO identification numbers identical to the ships captured by India: Global Peace, Chil 1, and Glory Star 1. Two of the three tankers are linked to Iran, with Al Jafzia having carried fuel oil from Iran to Djibouti in 2025 and Stellar Ruby flagged in Iran. The Asphalt Star mostly operated on voyages around China.
Illicit Trade Challenges Enforcement
Sanctioned oil and fuel are often sold at deep discounts due to the risks involved, making it challenging for authorities to track their activities. Intermediaries move cargo through complex ownership structures, false documentation, and mid-sea transfers that complicate enforcement. India‘s efforts to curb illicit trade demonstrate its commitment to preventing the misuse of its waters.
Original Article: India seizes Iran-linked US-sanctioned tankers, steps up surveillance — Straitstimes