US intercepts sanctioned vessel in Arabian Sea amid Iran blockade

The merchant vessel Sevan was intercepted in the Arabian Sea by a US Navy helicopter from guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney, according to the US mCentral Command. (X: @CENTCOM)

• ‘Shadow fleet’ tanker ordered to turn back under escort, says Central Command

The US military's Central Command said it intercepted a sanctioned merchant vessel in the Arabian Sea on Saturday, as enforcement of a US-led blockade on Iranian energy exports intensifies.
The ship, identified as the Sevan, was described as part of a 19-vessel “shadow fleet” accused of transporting Iranian oil and gas products to foreign markets in violation of US sanctions.
According to Central Command, the vessel was intercepted by a US Navy helicopter launched from the guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney. The military said the Sevan is now complying with instructions to turn back toward Iran under escort, marking the latest in a series of maritime enforcement actions tied to the blockade.
US officials said the targeted fleet has been sanctioned by the US Department of the Treasury for facilitating the transport of billions of dollars’ worth of Iranian energy exports, including propane and butane.
Since the start of the blockade, Central Command said 37 vessels have been redirected, underscoring Washington’s efforts to curb Tehran’s oil revenues amid ongoing regional tensions.