U.S. officials have stated that Trump administration officials discussed whether to seize more tankers involved in transporting Iranian oil to pressure Tehran, but have held off due to concerns about almost certain retaliation from the Iranian regime and the impact on global oil markets.

As part of a two-month-long blockade operation targeting sanctioned tankers serving Venezuela, the United States has already seized several vessels carrying Iranian petroleum, claiming these tankers form a so-called "shadow fleet" that helps move oil from multiple sanctioned nations to buyers.

If the U.S. takes action to prevent other sanctioned ships from loading oil in Iran, it would likely squeeze Tehran's primary source of revenue, thereby expanding the aggressive strategy the White House implemented in the Caribbean in December.

This option is one of several the White House has been considering to force Tehran into an agreement limiting its nuclear program. However, some officials have indicated that the option faces numerous obstacles and could be perceived as an act of war.

In response to escalated U.S. enforcement actions, Iran could retaliate by seizing tankers carrying oil for U.S. allies in the region, or even by mining the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow chokepoint exiting the Persian Gulf, through which up to 25% of the world's oil supply passes. Either move could cause a sharp spike in oil prices, risking a political storm for the White House.

Officials noted that this year, more than 20 vessels transporting Iranian oil have been sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department, making them potential targets for seizure.

Officials added that if the U.S. were to board a sanctioned vessel, it would need to deploy personnel and possibly additional ships to escort the tanker to the United States or another location willing to store the Iranian crude.