US officials are reportedly considering seizing more Iranian oil tankers to exert pressure on Tehran, but have postponed such actions due to concerns over potential retaliation and its impact on global oil markets. Officials within President Donald Trump's administration discussed this strategy, as reported by The Wall Street Journal on 10/2.

This potential move expands a strategy previously employed by the White House in the Caribbean Sea, where the US seized vessels suspected of transporting Iranian oil during a blockade against Venezuela. Such actions aim to reduce Iran's primary revenue and increase pressure on Tehran to reach an agreement limiting its nuclear program. These seized ships are often part of a "dark fleet" specializing in moving oil from sanctioned countries to buyers.

The oil tanker Aquila II seen from a US military helicopter on 9/2. *Photo: US Department of Defense*

However, US officials acknowledge this option faces significant obstacles. Concerns include potential Iranian retaliation, such as seizing US oil tankers in the region or laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which 25% of the world's oil passes. Either scenario could cause oil prices to surge and create a political crisis for the White House.

More than 20 oil tankers of Iranian origin have been sanctioned by the US Department of the Treasury this year, making them potential targets for seizure. However, such an operation would demand substantial resources, including personnel and official vessels to escort a captured ship to the US or a suitable storage facility for Iranian crude oil. A White House official, responding to inquiries about seizing Iran-linked tankers, affirmed President Trump's preference for diplomatic solutions, while noting other options remain available if negotiations falter. Iranian officials have not yet commented on these reports.

The Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman. *Graphic: CSIS*

The broader tensions between Washington and Tehran intensified following a wave of anti-government protests in Iran that began in late 12/2025. These demonstrations were fueled by merchant dissatisfaction with the economic situation and the devaluing rial, initially unfolding peacefully before escalating into deadly violence.

President Trump repeatedly signaled support for the protestors, even suggesting the possibility of airstrikes on Iran. However, Washington's allies cautioned him about the lasting consequences of such an attack. Iran subsequently announced the protests had concluded, reporting over 3,000 fatalities, with most victims identified as security forces members or bystanders killed by "rioters".

Further illustrating regional tensions, on 3/2, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) deployed six armed boats to approach the US-flagged oil tanker Stena Imperative in the Strait of Hormuz. The IRGC demanded the captain cut the engines and prepare for inspection. However, the IRGC failed to stop the ship, which maintained its speed and course, ultimately being escorted by a US warship.

Nguyen Tien (According to Reuters, WSJ, AFP)