LONDON, July 18 (Reuters) – Britain is seeking further information on reports Iran has seized a foreign tanker in the Gulf, the government said on Thursday, urging the Iranian authorities to de-escalate tensions.
Iranian state television quoted Iran‘s Revolutionary Guards as saying a tanker smuggling fuel had been seized.
“We’re seeking further information following reports of a tanker seized in the Gulf. We continue to urge the Iranian authorities to de-escalate the situation in the region,” a government spokeswoman said.
“We are continuously monitoring the security situation there and are committed to maintaining freedom of navigation, in accordance with international law.”
(Reporting by Kylie MacLellan; editing by William James)
