What does Iran resuming oil exports mean?

It signals de facto easing of U.S. sanctions and progress in nuclear negotiations.

How much oil was exported?

At least two VLCCs carried a total of 3.8 million barrels of crude oil.

What’s next in U.S.-Iran talks?

Final negotiations begin June 19 in Switzerland, with a 60-day decision window.

Impact on global oil prices?

Oil prices dropped on expectations of resumed supply from Iran.

Why didn’t the U.S. block the tankers?

Likely a deliberate non-response amid ongoing diplomacy; U.S. Central Command declined comment.

Iranian Oil Tankers Break Through Blockade, First Crude Export in Two Months

Published Jun 17, 2026 3:22 PM ・ Updated Jun 27, 2026 7:27 PM ・ 4 min read ・ Source: CNA (Central News Agency)

At least two Iranian oil tankers have left Iranian waters unimpeded, crossing the U.S. naval blockade and carrying 3.8 million barrels of crude oil—the first export in two months amid ongoing U.S.-Iran nuclear talks.

U.S.-Iran War Key News

Central Message

(Taipei, Tehran, June 16 — CNA, compiled from international news agencies) Multiple ship-tracking websites reported that at least two oil tankers left Iran today without being intercepted, crossing the U.S. naval blockade line. The tanker tracking website TankerTrackers.com stated this marks Iran's first crude oil export in two months.

According to reports from the Associated Press and Agence France-Presse, TankerTrackers.com said satellite imagery confirmed at least two Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) belonging to the National Iranian Tanker Company — the 'Diona' and 'Hero II' — departed the U.S. blockade zone, carrying a combined 3.8 million barrels of Iranian crude oil.

The shipping tracking site later reported that a third tanker has also left.

The U.S. Central Command stated it has no comment.

The United States and Iran are scheduled to begin final agreement negotiations on June 19 at the Burgenstock resort in Switzerland. News of the Strait of Hormuz resuming navigation has already caused international oil prices to drop.

Officials said negotiations on the final agreement will commence immediately after the signing ceremony in Switzerland and continue over a 60-day window, during which the future of Iran's nuclear program and the lifting of international economic sanctions will be decided.

The Wall Street Journal, citing informed sources, reported that under a ceasefire agreement, the U.S. will allow Iran to immediately resume selling oil and fuel.

The report also stated that sanctions exemptions for oil sales will take effect immediately upon signing, covering related services including banking, transportation, and insurance. (Translation: Tsai Chia-min) 1150617

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FACT BOX

Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
Category: Taiwan
Organizations: TankerTrackers.com / National Iranian Tanker Company

Iranian Oil Tankers Break Through Blockade, First Crude Export in Two Months

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