US is preparing naval action against tankers linked to Iran as tensions rise in the strait

By emmitt barryWorthy News Washington DC Bureau Chief

(Worthy News) – The United States is preparing to significantly expand its maritime pressure campaign against Iran, with plans underway to board and seize oil tankers and commercial vessels linked to Iran in international waters, US officials told the Wall Street Journal.

The move comes as tensions rise around the Strait of Hormuz, where Iranian forces have tightened controls and reportedly attacked several commercial vessels. The developments have destabilized global shipping markets, especially after Iran’s foreign minister claimed the waterway was completely open – a declaration welcomed by Donald Trump.

The expanded naval campaign is part of the Trump administration’s broader strategy known as “Economic Fury,” which aims to force Tehran to reopen the strait and make concessions on its nuclear program. Under this approach, the US military could stop and board Iranian-flagged ships around the world, including so-called “dark fleet” tankers that evade sanctions and regulations.

Ships suspected of carrying oil or weapons supporting Iran could also be seized. Gen. Dan Kane, chairman of the Joint Chiefs, said the US would actively pursue any vessels providing material support to Iran, signaling a broader enforcement stance. As part of the growing naval blockade, US Central Command has already turned back 23 ships attempting to leave Iranian ports.

This tension has increased amid delicate talks on Iran’s nuclear program. President Trump has said that Iran has agreed to hand over its highly enriched uranium reserves, although Tehran has rejected this claim. Key issues remain unresolved, including how long Iran will stop uranium enrichment, whether it will gain access to billions in frozen assets, and how any agreement will be verified and enforced. Recent talks in Pakistan ended without any results, and no new round of talks has been scheduled yet.

Meanwhile, US officials are insisting that US forces are prepared if the conflict erupts again, although there is a clear reluctance to engage in a wider war. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said U.S. forces are “fully prepared” but the administration is focused on avoiding ground action. Concerns remain that the escalation could prompt Iran to retaliate against energy infrastructure across the region, potentially disrupting global oil supplies. Although Iran has thousands of missiles, officials say its defense industry has been severely damaged, limiting its ability to quickly replenish its arsenal.

The crackdown is also targeting Iran’s oil exports, which amount to about 1.6 million barrels per day and are largely sent to China’s independent refineries. The US Treasury Department has expanded sanctions on ships, companies and individuals linked to Iran’s illicit oil trade. Legal enforcement is also increasing, with US prosecutors warning they will pursue those involved in buying or selling sanctioned Iranian oil.

Experts describe the administration’s strategy as a “maximalist approach”, using every available legal and economic tool to pressure Tehran in an effort to make concessions and ultimately end the conflict.

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