Priority Broadcast Alert – Indian Ocean Region

An OFAC-sanctioned, Iran-flagged product tanker was temporarily seized by US forces approximately 113NM east of Ras al Hadd, Oman. US Centcom announced that the vessel was “suspected of attempting to violate the U.S. blockade by transiting toward an Iranian port” at the time of the boarding and that the vessel was released and redirected following a search. The vessel was broadcasting a destination of Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates, when the seizure took place. Ambrey observed footage showing US personnel fast-roping onto the deck of the vessel from a Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk Helicopter. The helicopter likely took off from the America-class amphibious assault ship USS TRIPOLI. At the time of writing, no casualties or damage to the merchant vessel had been reported. The US continues to interdict vessels it believes are heading to/from Iran. ADVICE: Merchant vessels are advised to exercise heightened vigilance to naval and law enforcement activity. Vessels are advised to comply with any directions issued by military or coast guard units.