Iran Seizes Foreign Tanker Amid Fuel Smuggling Crackdown

Iranian authorities have detained 18 crew members from a foreign tanker seized in the Gulf of Oman, with allegations of carrying 6 million liters of smuggled fuel. The Iranian government continues its battle against fuel smuggling due to low fuel prices caused by subsidies and currency value decline.

In the latest move against fuel smuggling, Iranian authorities have detained 18 crew members from a foreign vessel seized off the Gulf of Oman. The tanker allegedly carried 6 million liters of smuggled fuel, according to reports from Iranian media on Saturday.

Iran's struggle with fuel smuggling has intensified in recent years, driven by some of the world's lowest fuel prices, a consequence of significant government subsidies and a devalued national currency. The issue has seen fuel transported illicitly by land to neighboring nations and by sea to several Gulf Arab states.

This incident marks a significant moment in Iran's ongoing campaign to curb illegal fuel exportation, as the nation endeavors to control its subsidized resources and stabilize its economy.

(With inputs from agencies.)