The United States is considering a significant escalation in its pressure campaign against Iran, contemplating the seizure of tankers transporting Iranian oil as a means to compel concessions in ongoing nuclear negotiations. The potential move, mirroring a strategy previously employed against Venezuela, aims to cripple Tehran’s primary revenue stream, according to US officials.
While a final decision has not been made, concerns over potential Iranian retaliation are a key factor delaying implementation. Officials fear Iran could respond by seizing tankers belonging to US allies or by mining the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil supplies, through which approximately 25% of the world’s oil passes. Such actions could trigger a substantial surge in oil prices and broader market disruption.
The Trump administration has already sanctioned over 20 tankers carrying Iranian oil in 2026, positioning them as potential targets for seizure. This aggressive posture reflects a willingness to explore increasingly forceful measures to bring Iran back to the negotiating table and secure a deal limiting its nuclear program. President Trump has indicated a preference for diplomatic solutions but has also emphasized that “he has multiple options at his disposal if the talks collapse.”
The consideration of tanker seizures comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran. Recent developments include discussions about potentially deploying a second US aircraft carrier to the Middle East, signaling a readiness for potential military action. Top Iran security officials have been engaged in diplomatic efforts, including a visit to Oman, a key location for US-Iran talks.
The strategy of targeting oil tankers is not new for the Trump administration. It has previously utilized similar tactics against Venezuela, aiming to curtail the revenue of the Maduro regime. Expanding this approach to Iran would represent a significant intensification of economic pressure, potentially impacting global oil markets and geopolitical stability.
However, the risks associated with such a move are substantial. Beyond the potential for Iranian retaliation, the seizure of tankers could also disrupt global oil supplies and drive up prices, potentially triggering a political backlash domestically. The Wall Street Journal reported that these concerns have, so far, kept Washington cautious.
The US Treasury has been actively sanctioning vessels involved in the transport of Iranian oil, effectively creating a list of potential targets. The decision to board and seize these vessels would require significant logistical planning, including the allocation of personnel and resources to escort the seized tankers to suitable storage locations.
The timing of these deliberations coincides with a scheduled meeting between President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Israel has consistently advocated for a hard line against Iran and is likely to support more aggressive measures to curb its nuclear ambitions. Netanyahu reportedly views Iran as a driving force behind artificially manufactured crises related to the nuclear program.
Despite the escalating tensions, President Trump has expressed optimism that Iran is willing to negotiate a deal with the United States, encompassing both its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. He characterized such a deal as being in Iran’s best interest, stating that it would be “foolish” for Tehran to reject it. However, the possibility of a breakthrough remains uncertain, and the US appears prepared to pursue a range of options, including more assertive economic measures, to achieve its objectives.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing diplomatic efforts and a heightened risk of escalation. The US decision on whether to seize Iranian oil tankers will likely have significant implications for global energy markets, geopolitical stability, and the future of nuclear negotiations with Iran.
