Tensions High in Gulf Following Latest Tanker Traffic Incident

CAIRO - The reported hijacking of an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman came to an end early Wednesday after commando forces who reportedly captured the ship appeared to let it go. It was not immediately clear which forces were responsible for the hijacking, and Iran denies responsibility.

Arab media indicated that commando forces who were reported to have taken control of the tanker Tuesday, released the ship early Wednesday, resolving the latest maritime shipping incident involving tanker traffic to and from the Persian Gulf. Maritime expert Salvatore Mercogliano indicated on his website that the Panama-flagged Asphalt Princess appeared to be heading away from the Gulf. He also pointed out that many other ships in the area appeared to be stopped or moving very slowly. Saudi-owned al Arabiya TV reported Tuesday that "at least five or six ships in the area of the Gulf of Oman appeared to have lost control of their ability to maneuver." It was not immediately clear what caused the problem, or if it was fully resolved.