Reviews & Ratings for the Reem-Alkhaleej

In an urgent diplomatic effort, Egypt is focusing on the release of four Egyptian crew members detained by Iranian authorities following the seizure of the tanker 'Reem Al-Khaleej.' The incident occurred in the Gulf, where the vessel was accused of fuel smuggling. According to Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the detention took place on January 28, 2026, and the crew is currently held in Bandar Abbas. Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has directed consular officials to undertake all necessary measures to ensure the well-being of the seafarers and to persist in negotiations for their release. To facilitate assistance for the crew, an official from the Interests Section has been dispatched to Bandar Abbas to provide legal support and maintain communication with Iranian authorities. As the legal proceedings are ongoing, the four Egyptians remain on board the tanker, which was seized for allegedly illicitly carrying 4,000 tons of fuel near Qeshm Island in December 2025. At the time of the interception, the vessel had a total of 16 crew members, all facing serious criminal charges. The 'Reem Al-Khaleej' is managed by UAE-based Qatrat Alnada Almasi Ship Management, a company recently subjected to U.S. sanctions on December 18 for its involvement in Iran's petroleum sector. A senior officer from the tanker has firmly denied the smuggling allegations, revealing that the vessel was en route from Sharjah to Khor Fakkan when it was apprehended. Following their detainment, the crew was reportedly transferred to Iran and collectively fined $14 million. Although the operating company has secured legal representation, there has been a lack of progress in the case, raising concerns that imprisonment might follow if the hefty fine remains unpaid.