DOJ seeks to revive historic prize courts to seize Iranian tankers
The Justice Department is preparing to reactivate maritime prize courts so seized Iranian oil vessels can be treated as war prizes and their cargo sold.
A Justice Department initiative aims to bring back maritime prize courts, providing a legal pathway to designate Iranian oil tankers seized during the naval blockade as war prizes. U.S. Attorney Aaron Reitz explained that federal courts need to be prepared to adjudicate the disposition of such vessels and their cargo, with any revenue directed to the Treasury Department. The proposal could face lawsuits from ship owners and claims from victims of Iranian terrorism.
Prize courts have not been used since the late 1800s, though the legal framework remains codified. Recent legal analyses note that district courts with admiralty jurisdiction would handle these cases, potentially in the Southern District of Texas, a hub for maritime activity. The White House declined to comment, referring questions to the Justice Department.
Why it matters
Reviving prize courts could allow the U.S. to monetize seized Iranian ships, affecting international trade and legal precedent.
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