Iran’s navy has seized another oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, uncovering millions of liters of illegally transported diesel and a multinational crew that included several Indian nationals. The interception underscores the persistent smuggling battle in one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors, where heavily subsidized Iranian fuel continues to lure traffickers despite strict enforcement.

Fuel smuggling thrives in the region because Iran’s domestic diesel prices remain extremely low due to government subsidies, allowing smugglers to earn large profits by selling it in nearby countries at much higher rates. In this case, authorities reported the tanker was carrying roughly six million liters of diesel and had switched off its navigation systems in an attempt to avoid detection. Officials in Hormozgan province said the 18-member crew came from India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, reflecting the region’s diverse maritime workforce.

While the fate of the crew has not yet been disclosed, previous incidents suggest sailors are often detained temporarily before being released or transferred, raising recurring safety concerns for Indian seafarers who form a significant share of the global shipping workforce. The seizure follows a series of similar operations by Iran in recent months and coincides with heightened international action, including a recent U.S. interception of an Iran-Venezuela-linked tanker.

Given that waters near the Strait of Hormuz carry about a fifth of the world’s oil supply, such incidents heighten regional tensions and add uncertainty to global energy markets. For India, the episode highlights the need for stronger safeguards for its overseas sailors, even as smugglers increasingly rely on “dark fleet” tactics and Iran continues intensive patrols in the area.