Iran Releases Greek-Owned Tanker St. Nikolas After Two-Year Standoff

Iran has released the St. Nikolas, a Greek-owned Suezmax tanker, marking a significant resolution in a protracted maritime standoff with the United States. The vessel, which Iran seized in January 2024, was released on January 12, 2026, as confirmed by vessel monitoring service Tanker Trackers. The release restores vital tanker capacity to global shipping routes and reduces geopolitical risks in a crucial maritime corridor.

The St. Nikolas was initially seized by Iran in retaliation for a 2023 U.S. confiscation of the same vessel, which was then sailing under the name Suez Rajan. The U.S. had confiscated the tanker as part of sanctions enforcement operations, as it was transporting Iraqi crude oil destined for Turkey. Iran's action was a direct response to the U.S. move, which Tehran had warned would not go unanswered.