Iran has released an oil tanker it seized two years ago, with satellite data confirming the vessel’s movement near the coast of Oman, according to shipping trackers and the ship’s management company.

The tanker, St Nikolas, was detained by Iranian authorities in January 2024 in what Tehran described at the time as retaliation for the United States’ alleged confiscation of Iranian crude oil. The vessel’s operator, Empire Navigation Inc., confirmed that the ship was released on January 9, 2026, and reached waters close to Oman a day later.

Satellite imagery reviewed by TankerTrackers.com showed the tanker positioned north of the Sohar anchorage area off Oman’s coastline. The tracking firm specializes in monitoring global tanker movements using satellite and maritime data.
Empire Navigation said the crew members are safe and in good condition.

The company also noted that the ship’s satellite tracking system has been restored, although it is currently not fully functional.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry has not issued an official statement on the release, despite requests for comment.

The development comes at a time of heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran. U.S. President Donald Trump has recently warned of possible intervention in Iran following a violent crackdown on protests that activists say has resulted in more than 2,000 deaths over the past two weeks.

In addition, Trump announced new trade measures on Monday, imposing a 25% tariff on any country conducting business with Iran. The announcement came shortly after he indicated that Iranian officials had reached out to explore potential negotiations.

The release of the tanker is being closely watched by energy markets and geopolitical analysts, as it may signal a tactical move by Tehran amid growing economic and diplomatic pressure.