US Seizes Oil Tanker Linked to Iran and Venezuela Oil Trade

The United States seized an oil tanker reportedly transporting sanctioned crude oil between Iran and Venezuela, targeting networks funding illicit activities and foreign terrorist organizations.

The US executed a seizure of a tanker carrying crude oil linked to sanctioned Venezuelan and Iranian operations, Attorney General Merrick Garland confirmed Wednesday.

FBI Director Kash Patel said the operation, conducted off Venezuela’s coast, targets illicit networks funding foreign terrorist organizations and disrupting illegal oil transfers.

Venezuela condemned the seizure as “outright theft” in the Caribbean, while the US emphasized continued efforts to cut resources for terrorist networks.

The tanker, reportedly named Skipper, was previously sanctioned as Adisa for involvement in Iranian oil trade, Reuters reported, citing the British maritime risk firm, Vanguards.

Following news of the seizure, Brent crude rose 41 cents to $62.35 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate increased 21 cents to $58.46.

US military presence surged in the region, including aircraft carriers, fighter jets, and tens of thousands of troops, signaling heightened readiness, officials reported.

Analysts warn the move may complicate Venezuelan oil exports, the country’s primary revenue source, as carriers and intermediaries exercise caution amid escalating sanctions.

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