US Forces Intercept Stateless Tanker Transporting Iranian Oil in Indian Ocean
The United States has conducted another maritime interdiction, targeting a stateless tanker in the Indian Ocean. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) reported the boarding of the tanker identified as Davina, although it is listed in most databases as Lenore. The vessel, which falsely claimed registry in Curacao and previously under the flag of Palau, was sanctioned by the U.S. in October 2024 for its involvement in the Iranian oil trade. The tanker was reportedly attempting to conceal itself approximately 20 miles southwest of Sri Lanka. According to TankerTrackers.com, the vessel is currently transporting 1.9 million barrels of Iranian crude oil, loaded on March 20 at Kharg Island, and has transported about 20 million barrels since 2024. This operation marks the third stateless tanker seized by INDOPACOM since mid-April, following the interdictions of the Tifani and Majestic X. 
