NEW DELHI (Kashmir English): India has seized three oil tankers — Stellar Ruby, Asphalt Star, and Al Jafzia — linked to Iran and previously sanctioned by the United States.
The act is being regarded by the analysts as a demonstration of India acting “more loyal than the king” in advancing Washington’s geopolitical agenda.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the vessels were intercepted about 100 nautical miles west of Mumbai on suspicion of masking the origin of oil cargoes through ship-to-ship transfers.
Indian Coast Guard
The Indian Coast Guard has deployed around 55 ships and 10–12 aircraft for continuous surveillance to enforce the seizures.
Observers note that the action comes amid warming US-India relations, including Washington’s recent reduction of import tariffs on Indian goods, reflecting India’s alignment with US interests even at the cost of its traditional strategic ties with Iran.
The National Iranian Oil Company has denied any connection to the tankers or their cargoes, while the US Office of Foreign Assets Control had previously sanctioned the vessels, citing their involvement in illicit oil trade.
Analysts say India’s move underscores its willingness to prioritize American directives, further exposing its role in international geopolitics as a partner willing to act “more loyal than the king.”
