US Pressure Leaves Iranian Oil Tankers Stranded Off Sri Lanka
A group of around 20 Iranian oil tankers has been stranded off Sri Lanka's southwest coast after local authorities enforced warnings from the US government. The vessels, which are currently drifting in international waters with idled engines, have run low on essential supplies such as food, fuel, and fresh water.
The situation follows direct pressure from Washington, with the US Embassy in Colombo alerting the Sri Lankan government to nearly 20 Iranian tankers operating off the western coast in August. The warning stated that local firms providing provisions or services to these ships could face severe secondary sanctions.
In response, Sri Lanka's Port Authority advised against servicing Iranian-flagged ships, citing prudence. Local shipping agencies and repair crews have reported being unable to obtain official approval to supply the stranded vessels, despite receiving urgent pleas for assistance from ship captains.