The Comoros-flagged vessel Arista has been grounded near Hormuz Island since March 2026, contradicting claims of a recent transit incident.
The IMO has paused its evacuation operations in the region following an attack in the Gulf of Oman to prioritize seafarer safety.
Arista is linked to the sanctioned Shamkhani network, a covert operation involved in the illicit sale of Iranian and Russian crude oil.
Tensions remain high as the IRGC warns international vessels to adhere strictly to designated routes or face potential targeting.