Analyst: Arrival of Iranian Supertanker in Indonesia Suspected to Be Part of Intelligence Operation
The arrival of an Iranian supertanker in Indonesian waters has caught the attention of intelligence and geopolitical analysts. Amir Hamzah assesses that this event is not merely a routine energy trade activity. He mentioned that the very large crude carrier (VLCC) entered Indonesian territory with an unusual sailing pattern, including turning off the automatic identification system (AIS), which is often linked to high-risk maritime intelligence operations.
Amir argues that this pattern indicates the movement is more than just commercial activity, rather part of a stealth operation reflecting Indonesia's shifting strategy in the global geopolitical dynamics. According to him, in intelligence practice, efforts to avoid tracking are usually tied to high-level political or economic sensitivity.
Indonesia, which still faces dependence on crude oil imports with domestic production not yet fully meeting needs, may view Iran as an economically and politically attractive alternative. The country, under pressure from Western sanctions, is known to offer competitive prices and flexible trade schemes.
https://www.gelora.co/2026/05/