The Trump administration is considering using a new lever of pressure against the Tehran regime – the possibility of detaining tankers carrying Iranian oil to compel negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program.
According to US government sources, the option is being discussed as a tool to influence Iran in the context of maintaining pressure on its nuclear ambitions and jump-starting the negotiation process.
The goal is to reach an agreement that would compel Tehran to limit its nuclear activities and fully abandon uranium enrichment.
At present, the administration is holding back from taking this step due to concerns about rising global oil prices and potential Iranian countermeasures.
A White House spokesperson noted that if negotiations fail, the United States has other options it can use to achieve its objectives.
In the past, the United States used similar instruments as part of a two-month blockade of Venezuela: several tankers carrying sanctioned oil to China and other buyers were detained, including Iranian oil.
Context and consequences
According to intelligence officials, Iran is preparing for possible escalation and is focusing its efforts on protecting its nuclear facilities, notably by strengthening security at the entrances to underground tunnels.
Experts note that such steps could affect oil markets and stability in the region.