Around 20 Iranian and Iran-linked oil tankers are reportedly stranded approximately 15 miles off Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, with some vessels facing shortages of food, fuel and fresh water.

The vessels are part of a wider group of Iranian-linked tankers that had been involved in transporting sanctioned Iranian crude, primarily to China. The U.S. government has intensified pressure on countries and companies that provide services to vessels connected to Iran’s oil trade.

The tankers normally transported Iranian crude to international waters near Malaysia, where the oil could be transferred to other vessels before being delivered to Chinese refineries. After unloading, the tankers would return to Iran for another cargo. The U.S. blockade and expanded sanctions have disrupted this cycle, leaving some empty vessels unable or unwilling to return to Iranian ports.

Sri Lanka has become one of the areas where the vessels have gathered. Several Iranian-flagged vessels have been reported near the country's Exclusive Economic Zone, outside Sri Lanka's territorial waters. Sri Lankan authorities have continued monitoring the vessels while noting that their presence outside territorial waters limits the country's jurisdiction over them.

The situation has created difficulties for the crews aboard the vessels. Shipping agents have reportedly sought food, fuel and other provisions from Sri Lankan companies, but some suppliers have been reluctant to assist because of potential U.S. sanctions.

The development is part of a broader disruption to Iran's oil exports. The U.S. pressure campaign has made it increasingly difficult for Iranian-linked vessels to transport crude and return safely to Iranian ports.

For Sri Lanka, the presence of the tankers presents a complex maritime and diplomatic situation. The vessels are close to the country's coast, but their location outside territorial waters means Sri Lankan authorities have limited powers over them. At the same time, local companies may face financial and legal risks if they provide services to sanctioned vessels.

The immediate concern is the welfare of the crews aboard the stranded tankers, particularly their access to essential supplies such as food, drinking water and fuel. The situation also highlights the wider impact of international sanctions and maritime restrictions on commercial shipping in the region.

– with Agencies inputs --