Iran Seizes Two Greek Oil Tankers As Tensions Rise

    Image copyright: Reuters [via Al Jazeera]

    The Facts

    • Iran seized two Greek oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz on Fri. as tensions rise between Tehran and the West over Iran's nuclear deal.

    • The move comes in possible retaliation for an Iranian tanker that was stopped in Greek waters last month at US request. That ship, Lana (formally Pegas) recently changed its flag from Russia to Iran. It's owned by Transmorflot, a Russian company that was designated on May 8.


    The Spin

    Establishment-critical narrative

    Greece and the US have both carried out acts of piracy by breaking maritime laws to impound the Iranian oil tanker and its cargo. Both countries must be held responsible for such violations as Iran won't renounce its rights.

    Pro-establishment narrative

    The seizure of Lana was lawful as both the Russian-owned ship and its Iranian oil cargo are under US sanctions. Furthermore, the oil tanker has a checkered history typical of vessels operating in the shadows, including several changes in its name, ownership and banner over the years.


    Metaculus Prediction


    Establishment split

    CRITICAL

    PRO

    More neutral establishment stance articles