Zanzibar Deceived Into Re-flagging 36 Iranian Oil Tankers

After a thorough investigation, Zanzibar is currently de-registering 36 Tanzania-flagged Iranian oil tankers once learning of their controversial origins.

Representatives from the Zanzibar government also announced the termination of their contract with Dubai-based Philtex; the contracting agency is being accused of misleading the government.

Zanzibar’s maritime authority had mistakenly registered the vessels and is now de-registering them to avoid international sanctions. This flag debacle seems to be an attempt by Iran to remain afloat amongst economy-devastating international sanctions imposed by the United States. The U.S. wants Iran to end its nuclear enrichment program.

Zanzibar has been under continuous international pressure to research the vessels’ origins from the beginning.