US Revives Ancient Maritime Law to Seize Captured Iranian Oil Tankers

The US government is reviving an ancient maritime law to claim captured Iranian tankers and oil under wartime conditions. The Prize Act of 1812, rarely used in over a century, would allow the government to seize vessels and cargo without needing to prove wrongdoing.

Aaron Reitz, US Attorney for the Southern District of Texas, confirmed that his office is helping to prepare for the revival of prize law. 'Our national security interests may require the US military to seize vessels or cargo supporting the enemy during military conflict,' he said in a statement.

The plan follows the imposition of a US naval blockade of Iranian ports and oil terminals. Prize law could be used against enemy vessels, ships carrying military supplies or other prohibited goods, and those accused of trying to breach the blockade.