US forces intercepted and seized a crude oil tanker in the Indian Ocean on 19 May over alleged links to Iranian oil shipments.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the vessel involved was the Skywave, marking the third tanker seizure of its kind following two similar operations in April.

Citing three US officials, the report said the tanker was likely carrying more than one million barrels of Iranian oil at the time of the interception. The vessel was stopped off the western coast of Malaysia after passing through the Malacca Strait.

Furthermore, AIS data showed that the tanker had previously called at Qingdao, China, and was heading toward Khor Fakkan in the UAE.

As explained, the Skywave had already been sanctioned by the US in March for allegedly transporting Iranian oil. The two earlier seizures in April involved the tankers Majestic X and Tifani, both intercepted in the Indian Ocean under similar circumstances.

The Skywave is a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) built in 2005 and sailing under the flag of Botswana. 

In its latest update, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said it continues to enforce the US blockade against Iran, aimed at restricting commercial activity involving Iranian ports. CENTCOM added that, as of 19 May, a total of 89 commercial vessels had been redirected to ensure compliance with the measures.