Iran has threatened sweeping legal action against vessels linked to South Korean tanker operator Sinokor, the world’s dominant very large crude carrier (VLCC) owner, from November 1, accusing the company of repeatedly violating Tehran’s restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) said Sinokor vessels had recorded more transit violations than those of any other operator over the past three months. The authority claimed enforcement measures had already been taken against at least seven ships and warned cargo owners, charterers and insurers that all Sinokor-linked vessels would face “legal action” from Sunday. However, it did not specify the nature of the proposed measures.
The warning marks the first time Tehran has publicly threatened action against an entire shipping company rather than targeting individual vessels.
Sinokor has significantly expanded its presence in the Gulf since the conflict began, capitalising on exceptionally high tanker freight rates. According to Bloomberg vessel-tracking analysis, Sinokor-controlled tankers transported approximately 105.6 million barrels of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz in September, accounting for around 37% of total volumes.
At least seven Sinokor-linked tankers have reportedly been struck by missiles or drones during the conflict, highlighting the security risks facing vessels operating in the region.
The Korea Shipowners’ Association has disputed Iran’s allegations, stating that the vessels identified in the dispute were sub-chartered to an overseas oil company and carried no South Korean crew. Sinokor is seeking clarification from Tehran regarding the warning.
The latest development adds to uncertainty over the safety of navigation through the strategic waterway, a critical route for global oil shipments.
Separately, Iran’s navy claimed that an unidentified tanker caught fire after striking mines east of the Strait of Hormuz while sailing with its tracking equipment switched off. The incident has not been independently verified.
The claim also challenges the US Central Command’s assertion on Sunday that the strait’s main shipping lanes had been cleared of Iranian mines, underscoring continuing uncertainty over maritime security and vessel movements in the region.