Return of the pirates: Iran slams US tanker seizures as armed robbery

Iran has sharply condemned the United States after US forces seized two tankers allegedly carrying Iranian oil, calling the action “armed robbery on the high seas” and a violation of international law.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei accused Washington of legitimising piracy, saying the seizures amounted to “the outright legalisation of piracy and armed robbery on the high seas.”

In a post on X, Baghaei said the world was witnessing “the return of the pirates,” alleging that US authorities were using legal warrants to justify what he described as unlawful plunder under official flags.

US DEFENDS TANKER SEIZURES

US authorities, however, defended the move as a lawful enforcement action. Jeanine Ferris Pirro said US forces had seized the tankers Majestic X and Tifani under court-approved warrants.

According to Pirro, both vessels were carrying roughly 1.9 million barrels of Iranian oil each when they were intercepted in the Indian Ocean. She said the operation was part of a broader effort to disrupt illicit oil networks and prevent sanctioned entities from profiting.

Pirro added that US agencies would continue to “relentlessly investigate, track, and pursue” such cases in coordination with national security partners.

RISING TENSIONS OVER STRAIT OF HORMUZ

The seizures come amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil shipments.

Both US and Iranian forces have recently reported incidents involving commercial vessels in the region, raising concerns over maritime security and the stability of energy supplies.

PRESSURE BUILDS ON IRAN'S OIL SECTOR

The developments have intensified pressure on Iran’s oil industry, already strained by sanctions and restricted exports. Storage facilities, particularly at Kharg Island, are nearing capacity as crude continues to accumulate.

Analysts say Iran faces a difficult choice, as halting production risks long-term damage to oil wells while export routes remain constrained.

TRUMP REITERATES HARDLINE STANCE

US President Donald Trump signalled no immediate shift in Washington’s approach, saying the US is in no rush to negotiate.

“If they want to talk, they can come to us,” Trump said, reiterating that any agreement must ensure Iran does not develop nuclear weapons. “They know what has to be in the agreement. It’s very simple,” he added.

MARITIME TENSIONS DEEPEN

The standoff underscores a widening confrontation between the two countries, with legal, military and economic dimensions increasingly intersecting at sea.

Iran has warned that the US actions threaten international trade norms and maritime security, while Washington maintains it is enforcing sanctions and countering illicit activity.

With both sides standing firm, the risk of further escalation in one of the world’s most vital shipping corridors remains high.

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