Iran Seizes 2 Greek Tankers in Persian Gulf As Tensions Rise
SnopesSep 09, 2022
The Facts
Iran has reportedly agreed to release 49 crew members of two Greek tankers –the MT Prudent Warrior and Delta Poseidon– seized in May by its Revolutionary Guards after the US confiscated oil from the Iranian-flagged tanker Lana in Greece.
On Mon., the Greek shipping minister Yannis Plakiotakis confirmed that a Greek sailor from the vessel Delta Poseidon was the first crew member to have left for Greece.
The Spin
Anti-Iran narrative
Iran's theft of these two Greek tankers is just another example of the corrosive effect the Islamic Republic has had throughout the Middle East and beyond. Before these current tensions even began, Iran had attacked major oil shipping lanes and infrastructure to pursue its goal of regional hegemony. The US cannot allow Iran to commit these acts unabated.
Pro-Iran narrative
Iran's actions were strictly punitive and in response to the US's seizure of Iranian oil. Iran has no interest in disrupting the global oil market, as it simply wants to ensure the security of its national assets. Showcasing Iranian restraint, the detained crew members have been, by all accounts, treated in accordance with international law.