Watch the moment US Forces raid sanctioned vessel transporting Iranian oil

Georgia Pearce
Tue, 21 Apr 2026 12:07:58 +0000

American military personnel have successfully boarded and seized the M/T Tifani, a stateless tanker under international sanctions, during an operation in waters within the Indo-Pacific Command's jurisdiction.

The interdiction, captured on video, proceeded smoothly with no reported confrontations or resistance.

The vessel stands accused of delivering material assistance to Iran, making it a target of ongoing efforts to enforce maritime sanctions.

US forces exercised their right-of-visit authority to conduct the boarding, a legal mechanism permitting inspection of ships without national registration operating on the high seas.

The Department of War has signalled its intention to maintain pressure on vessels operating outside international law, emphasising that open waters offer no sanctuary for ships under sanctions.

Officials made clear that Washington will pursue enforcement actions globally to dismantle illegal supply chains and intercept tankers funnelling resources to Tehran, regardless of where such vessels attempt to operate.

WATCH ABOVE.