US military oversees secret ship-to-ship oil transfers to circumvent Iran blockade

The U.S. military is now using tactics similar to those employed by Iran to conduct covert ship-to-ship oil transfers in the Gulf of Oman. These operations aim to bypass sanctions and maintain energy exports amid a blockade. The U.S. military has been guiding convoys to awaiting tankers, with at least 92 ships participating in these transfers since early May. An estimated 90 million barrels of oil have been moved through this method. The operation involves disabling transponders and dimming lights to avoid detection, mirroring Iran's own smuggling techniques.

In parallel developments related to sanctions and maritime trade, British forces intercepted the Russian shadow fleet oil tanker MV Smyrtos in the English Channel. This marks the first such interdiction by the UK in its own waters. The tanker's captain, Ajay Pant, an Indian national, has been charged by British authorities with contravening sanctions.

Furthermore, the U.S. Coast Guard has identified that tankers operating within the 'dark fleet,' which are involved in transporting sanctioned oil from Iran and Russia, are utilizing digital tools that pose significant risks. These tools endanger ship safety, the well-being of crews, and the marine environment.

In a separate geopolitical development, Sudan's army has reportedly ceased purchasing weapons from Iran. This decision is viewed as a strategic move to garner support from the United States for future negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing civil war in Sudan, which has been active for three years.