Iraq Navy Detains Liberian Tanker in Fuel Smuggling Crackdown Near Basra

Iraq's navy has intensified its crackdown on fuel smuggling in Gulf waters by detaining the Liberian-flagged oil tanker Liliana near Basra's oil terminal, carrying approximately 93,000 to 250,000 metric tons of undocumented fuel oil. The vessel was intercepted 26 nautical miles off the Iraqi coast after failing to present official documentation verifying the cargo's origin, suspected to be illicitly obtained Iraqi oil. Iraqi authorities launched a comprehensive inspection operation, boarding the tanker, questioning the crew, and checking passports, emphasizing that vessels involved in suspicious activities within Iraqi waters will be detained and those involved arrested. This enforcement effort follows increased pressure from the United States, which alleges that Iran is using Iraqi ports to disguise its oil exports and has blacklisted several tankers suspected of illegal petroleum loading. The detained tanker remains anchored pending judicial review, with its operators given a deadline to provide proper documentation or face court action. Iraqi officials describe the crackdown as part of a broader reform and maritime surveillance initiative aimed at combating smuggling and unauthorized exports at Basra's export terminals.