U.S. Condemns Iranian IRGC Seizure of Marshall Islands-Flagged Tanker M/V Talara In International Waters

The vessel remains anchored in Iranian territorial waters pending investigation, according to Iranian Navy announcements on November 15.

MIDDLE EAST — U.S. Central Command issued a condemnation of the seizure as a violation of international law on November 16, following real-time monitoring of the incident. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar described Iran as operating like a pirate state in a statement on the same day.

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As of November 17, no official sources indicate the release of the tanker or its crew. The vessel remains anchored in Iranian territorial waters pending investigation, according to Iranian Navy announcements on November 15.

Iranian Navy statements highlighted the action as enforcement of legal obligations to protect national resources. The operation involved Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy units boarding the tanker via helicopter, supported by fast-boats.

U.S. Central Command forces observed the boarding but refrained from direct intervention. Official accounts from both U.S. Central Command and Iranian sources report no casualties or damage to the vessel. Columbia Shipmanagement, the ship’s manager, provided confirmation of the cargo composition.

Incident Details