US Blockade Leaves Dozens of Iranian Oil Tankers Stranded

At least 50 Iranian oil tankers are stranded near the country’s coast due to a US blockade, according to a report by United Against Nuclear Iran. Bloomberg cited this organization in detailing the situation, where loaded tankers remain anchored near Khark Island, a key oil export terminal. Additionally, twenty Iranian-flagged vessels are waiting off the coast of Sri Lanka, with another vessel positioned near Oman.

The stranded tankers carry a mix of crude oil, petroleum products, and liquefied petroleum gas. Empty tankers are also anchored across the Indian and Pacific Oceans, avoiding returns to Iranian ports due to the ongoing restrictions. Eleven loaded tankers are stationed east of Khark Island, while five more are located to the south.

United Against Nuclear Iran noted that the situation has seen little change over the past two months, indicating that many vessels are unable to complete their intended voyages. The prolonged disruption highlights the continued impact of the US blockade on Iranian oil and energy product movements, leaving both loaded and empty vessels waiting offshore.