The tensions between the UK and Iran over the oil tankers has added another dimension. Iran has demanded the UK release an Iranian oil tanker seized by Royal Marines last week, adding that foreign powers must “leave the region because Iran and other regional countries are capable of securing the regional security”. The tanker was seized on suspicion of transporting oil to Syria, in breach of EU sanctions. Iran threatened reciprocal action if the UK does not release the tanker, as geopolitical tensions rise, with a British commercial vessel allegedly harassed by Iranian vessels near the strait of Hormuz this week, a claim Iran denied. In response to Iran’s latest threats, Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said he would be calling for talks between Tehran and London over its nuclear programme.
Iran has demanded the UK release an Iranian oil tanker seized by Royal Marines last week, adding that foreign powers must “leave the region because Iran and other regional countries are capable of securing the regional security”. The tanker was seized on suspicion of transporting oil to Syria, in breach of EU sanctions. Iran threatened reciprocal action if the UK does not release the tanker, as geopolitical tensions rise, with a British commercial vessel allegedly harassed by Iranian vessels near the strait of Hormuz this week, a claim Iran denied. In response to Iran’s latest threats, Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said he would be calling for talks between Tehran and London over its nuclear programme.