Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Apr 23: The US military has seized another vessel allegedly carrying Iranian oil in international waters in the Indian Ocean, with the Pentagon describing the operation as a “right-of-visit” boarding under maritime law.

The Pentagon released video footage showing US soldiers descending from helicopters and boarding the ship during the operation.

US officials said the vessel was suspected of transporting Iranian oil and was intercepted as part of maritime enforcement actions in the region.

According to the Pentagon, the boarding was carried out in international waters and the ship was taken into custody without incident.

Officials maintained the operation was lawful and aimed at enforcing sanctions-related measures involving Iranian-linked shipping activity.

The seizure comes amid heightened maritime tensions in the region and growing concerns over security in vital global shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters.

The latest action is being seen as part of broader US efforts to monitor and disrupt shipping networks allegedly linked to Iran.