The Jairan, an Iranian cargo ship linked to the transport of missile components, has been spotted in Bandar Abbas port after departing China.
According to The Maritime Executive, the vessel, under U.S. sanctions, has arrived in Iran despite ongoing concerns over Iran’s missile capabilities and its ties to the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL).
Why It Matters
The Jairan has been linked to Iran’s procurement of sodium perchlorate, a chemical used in solid rocket fuel, according to The Financial Times. Iran’s reported transfer of missile propellant chemicals to its armed forces signals a possible military buildup. If China is assisting Tehran in acquiring these materials, tensions could escalate with the U.S. and its regional allies.
The map below illustrates the vessel’s most recent movements and when it arrived in Iranian waters:
What to Know
Over the weekend, a vessel resembling the Jairan was identified in Bandar Abbas Anchorage, positioned near the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The ship’s dimensions and deck cranes match those of the 16,694-ton Jairan. Tracking data confirms the vessel’s departure from China.
In January, Newsweek reported that intelligence sources had said they believed Iran is attempting to import 1,000 metric tons of sodium perchlorate, which if converted into ammonium perchlorate, could support the production of hundreds of medium-range missiles.
Treasury Dept. Sanctions
The Jairan is one of two Iranian cargo ships named in these reports. The other is the Golbon, which completed a similar journey over a month ago. The U.S. Treasury Department has sanctioned both ships for their links to IRISL, which has been accused of aiding weapons proliferation.
U.S. and Iran Tensions
Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have escalated following President Donald Trump’s recent warning to Tehran regarding its nuclear program, stating, “If they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing.”
In response, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned the U.S. stance, stating, “If they commit any mischief, they will surely receive a strong reciprocal blow.” He further criticized the negotiations, asserting that they are “not aimed at solving issues, but to dominate and impose their own expectations.” Khamenei dismissed Trump’s offer for direct talks as a “deception,” suggesting it was merely an attempt to portray Iran as unwilling to negotiate.