ALBAWABA- Iranian forces have seized a UAE-owned tanker near Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian state media reported on August 17, 2026, citing the Fars News Agency.
Qeshm Island, located near the northern entrance to the strategic waterway, serves as a major Iranian military and commercial hub.
The reported seizure comes amid escalating maritime tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor through which a significant share of the world’s seaborne oil supplies passes.
In recent weeks, the United Arab Emirates has accused Iran of carrying out multiple attacks against vessels linked to the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC). UAE officials said Iranian forces targeted ADNOC-affiliated tankers transiting the strait, including incidents in early and mid-August involving missiles or other projectiles. Some of the attacks reportedly injured crew members, with Abu Dhabi describing the incidents as unprovoked violations of international law.
Tehran has not publicly accepted responsibility for all of the reported attacks. Iran has previously defended actions against vessels it says violated its maritime directives or transported unauthorized cargo.
The latest incident follows a broader escalation in US-Iran hostilities earlier this year, with Tehran seeking to exert greater control over maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian authorities have at times directed vessels to use designated routes under their surveillance and warned ships against non-compliance.
The United States and its partners have responded with naval operations, vessel diversions and strikes intended to limit Iran’s ability to disrupt commercial shipping. The confrontations have disrupted maritime traffic, increased insurance costs and contributed to environmental incidents, including oil spills involving damaged vessels near Qeshm and in Omani waters.
The reported seizures and attacks reflect Tehran’s use of its strategic geographic position along the Strait of Hormuz as leverage amid the wider conflict. By detaining or targeting vessels linked to regional adversaries or those it considers non-compliant, Iran can exert pressure over maritime access through one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints.
