Iranian authorities have seized two oil tankers in the Persian Gulf over allegations of fuel smuggling, according to reports from state-linked media. The operation was carried out by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal fuel trade in the region.

Officials said the vessels were intercepted in Gulf waters after intelligence monitoring indicated they were transporting large volumes of smuggled fuel. The tankers were subsequently escorted to an Iranian port for further investigation. Authorities claim the cargo included diesel fuel believed to be intended for illegal distribution outside the country.

A total of 15 crew members were detained during the operation and have been referred to judicial authorities. Iranian officials stated that the crew members are foreign nationals but did not disclose their identities, nationalities, or the flags under which the vessels were operating.

Iranian naval commanders described the seizure as part of a broader crackdown on organized fuel-smuggling networks operating in the Persian Gulf. Fuel smuggling remains a persistent issue in the region due to price differences between Iran and neighboring markets.
The incident adds to a series of recent maritime enforcement actions by Iran in strategic waterways, including areas near key global shipping routes. Such developments continue to draw attention from the international maritime community, as the Persian Gulf plays a critical role in global energy transportation.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the nationalities of the detained crew members, confirming only that they are foreign nationals. No official information has been released regarding whether any Filipino seafarers were among those onboard. This remains a developing story, and updates will be provided should authorities confirm the presence of Filipino crew members.