UPDATE 04: On 18 November, Ambrey verified that the incident was a result of a commercial dispute, and has changed the categorisation of the event from “seizure” to an “interdiction”. It is assessed that there is no additional risk to broader shipping as a result of this event. ADVICE: It is advised to carry out sanctions screening checks and cargo origin checks while trading within the region.
UPDATE 03: The Technical Manager subsequently released a statement confirming that the twenty-one crew members “are reported to be safe and accounted for. The vessel is now safely anchored off the coast of Bandar Abbas, Iran.”
UPDATE02: The technical manager has issued a public statement confirming that they have lost contact with the vessel. She was carrying a cargo of high sulphur gasoil. Consistent with Iranian seizures, the vessel’s AIS transmissions stopped at 08:02 UTC.
UPDATE 01: A Marshall Islands–flagged crude oil tanker was observed making a sudden course deviation whilst transiting the Gulf of Oman, 22NM east of Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates. The vessel, en route from Ajman, UAE, to Singapore, had previously been approached by three small boats while transiting southbound through the Strait of Hormuz. At the time of writing, the tanker was heading towards Iranian territorial waters. Ambrey has assessed that this incident is likely highly targeted. ADVICE: Merchant vessels are advised to remain vigilant while transiting the Strait of Hormuz and to report any suspicious activity immediately.
Ambrey is aware of an ongoing incident 22NM east of Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates. Ambrey has assessed the situation as on going and will provide updates when more information available.
