What Crew Members Say About Majestic-X

In a significant maritime operation, U.S. forces have successfully intercepted the stateless tanker 'Majestic X' in the Indian Ocean, positioned between Sri Lanka and Indonesia. This action took place in the same vicinity where the oil tanker 'Tifani' was apprehended by American military on April 23, 2026. The 'Majestic X', previously named 'Phonix,' was caught red-handed transporting Iranian oil. Flagged under Guyana, this vessel has a history of sanctions imposed by the U.S. Treasury Department as far back as 2024, aimed at its involvement in smuggling Iranian crude oil, which violates U.S. sanctions against the Islamic Republic. For further details, including photos and videos from the operation, visit: https://www.turkiyetoday.com/region/us-seizes-another-tanker-carrying-iranian-oil-in-indian-ocean-3218665.

On December 3, 2024, the United States government enacted sanctions against 35 entities and vessels linked to the transportation of Iranian petroleum and its derivatives to international markets. This decisive action follows Iranian attacks on Israel that occurred on October 1, as well as alarming announcements regarding Iran's nuclear advancements. The primary aim of these sanctions is to impede Iran's nuclear program, curb the development of their missile and drone technologies, and dismantle funding channels for terrorist proxies that rely on oil sales. Among the 35 targeted parties, 18 tankers have been singled out, accused of having transported millions of barrels of oil on Iran's behalf. Notably, the sanctions extend to various entities responsible for the operation and management of these vessels, in addition to those facilitating the illicit sale of Iranian oil. Highlighted in the sanctions are the 'Rioo Napo' and 'Lara II,' both owned and operated by the India-based Vision Ship Management LLP, which has also been sanctioned. The RIO NAPO has a history of transporting Iranian Naphtha to the UAE, further accentuating its role in circumventing international regulations. Additionally, the 'Tonil' has been implicated in previously evading sanctions while reportedly transporting millions of barrels of Iranian oil. The vessel is managed by the sanctioned Ukrainian entity, Lightship Management Ltd., with support from Indian Tightship Shipping Management (OPC) Private Ltd., another company facing sanctions. These ongoing efforts reflect the US commitment to disrupt Iran's oil trade and limit its capacity to fund activities that threaten regional stability.

In a significant move within the maritime industry, Formosa Plastics Marine Corp has successfully completed the sale of their Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC), the 'Formosapetro Challenger'. Built in 2001 by IHI-Kure, Japan, this substantial vessel, which recently underwent dry docking in June 2019, has been sold to undisclosed buyers for a reported $19 million. This transaction highlights the ongoing dynamics in the shipping market and the demand for quality vessels.