US forces pursue third Venezuelan oil tanker amid rising tensions

(MENAFN) US forces are reportedly moving to intercept another Venezuelan-linked oil tanker in the Caribbean, a step that would mark the third such action since Dec. 10 if the vessel is seized, as stated by reports.

According to accounts citing sources familiar with the matter, the operation is focused on the Bella 1, a Panama-flagged tanker that has been sanctioned by Washington and is currently heading toward Venezuela to load crude. The activity has been described by US authorities as an "operation," though neither Washington nor Caracas has issued an official statement confirming the latest pursuit.

The reported move follows the recent interception of the supertanker Centuries on Saturday, as well as the earlier boarding of the Skipper on Dec. 10, signaling a sustained escalation in maritime enforcement actions.

The unfolding events come amid rising friction between the United States and Venezuela. US President Donald Trump has announced what he described as a "total and complete blockade" of sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuelan ports.

Venezuelan officials have denounced the US actions, labeling them "international piracy."

Washington maintains that the measures are intended to curb corruption and drug trafficking activities. Caracas, however, argues that the anti-narcotics justification is being used as a cover for efforts to unseat President Nicolas Maduro and gain control over Venezuela’s oil resources.

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