UK forces assisted the United States in interdicting the vessel Bella 1 on 7 January 2026. The operation took place between the UK and Iceland, with UK bases and surveillance support enabling the U.S. interception. Defence Secretary John Healey said the UK armed forces demonstrated skill and professionalism, contributing to the successful action. The Bella 1 is subject to U.S. counter-Iran sanctions and is linked to a Russian-Iranian axis of sanctions evasion. The UK has imposed sanctions on 520 Russian shadow-fleet vessels and aims to reduce Russia’s oil revenue, which fell 27% compared to October 2024. The UK will continue to step up action against shadow-fleet activity to protect national security and global stability.
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Original source: https://www.gov.uk/
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-provides-support-to-us-seizure-of-bella-1-accused-of-shadow-fleet-activities-and-iran-sanctions-breaches
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