The Charminar: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On September 8, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces took decisive action by destroying five Iranian crude oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman. This response followed two recent missile attacks directed at a U.S. Navy warship by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), highlighting escalating regional tensions. Fortunately, the American warship successfully dodged these Iranian strikes and maintained its patrol operations without any reported injuries among its crew. The tankers struck included the 'Kaviz', 'Charminar', 'Horizon 1', 'Riesco', and 'Derya', with the latter near Kharg Island. The 'Riesco' sank after developing a starboard list, but not before American forces ordered the crew to abandon ship to ensure their safety. These vessels were part of an extensive multibillion-dollar clandestine network utilized by Iran to financially support the IRGC and its allies across the region. For video footage of the operations, visit [Video 1](https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2097448820099711412/video/1) and [Video 2](https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2097498039841591571/video/1).

On July 25, 2026, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) carried out a strategic verification boarding of the tanker 'Charminar' while it was navigating the Arabian Sea. This operation is part of the concerted effort to maintain the U.S. naval blockade against Iran. Since the reactivation of this blockade, the U.S. has successfully redirected 12 commercial vessels heading towards Iran, incapacitated two that refused to comply, and conducted boardings on two vessels, including the 'Charminar', to ensure adherence to the blockade rules. As of July 27, the tanker was located as Non Operational (NUC) in position 25° 02' N 057° 49' E within the Gulf of Oman. The 'Charminar', previously sanctioned by the U.S. in 2025 for transporting Iranian fuel to the Houthis, remained under scrutiny during its maritime journey. This critical process is pivotal in enforcing compliance amid escalating tensions in the region. For more details, including photos and video footage of the operation, you can visit the following links: [U.S. Forces Board Tanker M/T Charminar](https://www.marineinsight.com/video-us-forces-board-tanker-m-t-charminar-disables-another-in-the-gulf-of-oman/) and [U.S.-Iran Tensions and Vessel Compliance](https://www.rivieramm.com/news-content-hub/us-iran-pause-hostilities-as-vessels-continue-challenging-blockade-89494).

In a significant operation, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft apprehended eight stowaways aboard the tanker 'Charminar' at the Lagos anchorage on September 28, 2023, at 2 a.m. The naval patrol, acting on actionable intelligence, stumbled upon the stowaways while on a routine mission in position 06°18'21" N, 003°23'58" E. The stowaways were discovered attempting to clandestinely leave the country, hidden within the vessel's rudder compartment. During the operation, the Navy seized various belongings, including mobile phones and supplies, highlighting ongoing efforts to prevent unauthorized departures from Nigeria's shores.

In a significant transaction, a vessel has been sold to Greek buyers for a sum of $10.8 million. This deal reflects the ongoing interest of Greek investors in expanding their maritime assets. The sale underscores the dynamics of the shipping industry and the competitive nature of acquiring quality vessels in today's market.