Trump Revives Ancient Prize Law to Seize Iranian Oil Tankers
The Trump administration has revived an ancient legal tradition called prize law to seize Iranian oil tankers and sell their assets. Prize law allows military forces to seize enemy vessels without a warrant or statutory violation, making it easier for the US government to recoup costs from the war.
Aaron Reitz, US Attorney in the Southern District of Texas, confirmed that the Justice Department is reviving prize law, which has existed since the Middle Ages and was codified in the US Constitution. The move aims to bolster the naval blockade of Iran and increase revenue for the US government.
Prize law differs from civil seizure laws, which require extensive litigation and identification of a statutory violation. However, legal experts warn that invoking prize law could lead to complex legal complications, including proving the capture takes place during a war with hostilities within congressional and presidential authority.