DOJ Revives Maritime Prize Courts for Seized Iranian Oil Tankers

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is planning to revive maritime prize courts to facilitate the seizure of Iranian oil tankers as war prizes, according to a report by Bloomberg Law. This move aims to offset the costs of the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran.

Maritime prize courts would provide a legal pathway for the US government to claim vessels captured by the Navy during the enforcement of a naval blockade against Iran. The process would enable the sale of oil or other cargo from ships that violated the blockade, with proceeds directed to the Treasury Department.

Aaron Reitz, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas, stated that national security interests may require the military to seize vessels or cargo supporting the enemy during conflict, and federal courts must be prepared to adjudicate the disposition of such captures.