US Forces Stopped Iraqi Oil Tankers at Strait of Hormuz, Sources Say

TEHRAN, Iran — U.S. forces have allegedly prevented a group of Iraqi oil tankers from transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to sources cited by Arab media. The assertion comes as the U.S. embargo on Iranian ports remains in effect, though Iraqi officials have denied reports that Baghdad paid fees to Tehran in connection with any oil shipments. U.S. forces said they redirected 129 commercial vessels and disabled six ships found to be non-compliant with regulations in the strategic waterway. Authorities added that 36 vessels carrying humanitarian aid were permitted to pass through the strait. The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-fifth of global oil trade, making it a critical chokepoint for energy markets. U.S. sanctions targeting Iran have directly influenced maritime traffic in the region. Iraq's oil export routes and their future trajectory remain unclear amid the ongoing tensions.