Iranian oil tankers anchor near Sri Lanka amid US blockade

A significant number of Iranian oil tankers, estimated at around 20, have anchored near Sri Lanka's exclusive economic zone (EEZ). This unusual congregation is a direct consequence of a US naval blockade imposed in the Strait of Hormuz, which is hindering tankers from accessing Iranian ports.

According to an analysis by maritime intelligence firm Tankertrackers.com, at least 13 of these vessels are flying the Iranian flag. The tankers are reportedly waiting for a chance to return to Iranian ports to refuel. Their presence near Sri Lanka is driven by a desire for safety, as they fear potential attacks if they attempt to navigate the blockaded waters. Tankertrackers.com co-founder Samir Madani noted that many of these ships are hoping to re-enter Iranian ports for refueling.

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Most of the ships anchored near Sri Lanka's exclusive economic zone are believed to be waiting for the opportunity to re-enter Iran and refuel. It is also believed that these ships have come near Sri Lanka's exclusive economic zone seeking safety out of fear of an attack.

However, Sri Lanka has clarified its position on the matter. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that while the country is aware of the tankers' presence, they are anchored outside Sri Lanka's EEZ. Consequently, the nation holds no responsibility or obligation concerning these vessels. Madani also emphasized that Sri Lanka is not providing any facilities to the anchored tankers.

Data indicates that since mid-July, no oil has been loaded onto vessels departing from Iran's Kharg Island or the Gulf region for destinations outside the region, due to the US naval presence. The US blockade has reportedly impacted over 20 Iranian vessels in the past six months, forcing more than 75 other merchant ships to turn back from Iranian ports. In this challenging environment, Iranian tankers are seeking safer waters in the maritime areas near Sri Lanka and Pakistan until they can safely return to Iranian ports. Sri Lanka's strategic maritime location has drawn international attention amidst the Middle East conflict and US sanctions against Iran.

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Although Sri Lanka is aware of all these ships, they are anchored outside the boundaries of the country's exclusive economic zone, so Sri Lanka has no obligation regarding those ships.