US mulling new pressure tactic on Iran

February 12, 2026

TL;DR

The US is considering seizing tankers carrying Iranian oil to pressure Tehran over its nuclear program.
Previous seizures of vessels linked to sanctioned countries have occurred.
The US administration has debated confiscating Iranian vessels but has not acted due to concerns about retaliation and market disruption.
Iran could retaliate by seizing tankers from US allies, potentially raising oil prices.
The US Treasury has sanctioned over 20 vessels allegedly involved in transporting Iranian oil.
The White House official stated that Trump favors diplomacy but has other options if negotiations fail.
Tensions are high, with the US deploying additional naval and air assets to the region.
Iran remains committed to diplomacy but is prepared for renewed conflict, emphasizing that technology cannot be destroyed by military threats.

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