India Seizes Iran-Linked US-Sanctioned Tankers

India has seized three US-sanctioned oil tankers, Stellar Ruby, Asphalt Star, and Al Jafzia, linked to Iran this month and increased surveillance in its maritime zone to curb illicit trade. The tankers were intercepted west of Mumbai after suspicious activity was detected. This action follows an improvement in United States-India relations, where the United States announced tariff cuts on Indian goods, and India agreed to stop Petroleum imports. The seized vessels frequently changed their identities to evade law enforcement. The National Iranian Oil Company has denied any connection to the seized tankers. The Indian Coast Guard has deployed numerous ships and aircraft for round-the-clock surveillance.