Sanctioned-linked yacht crosses Hormuz tensions
A luxury superyacht linked to a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin has crossed the Strait of Hormuz despite ongoing tensions and restrictions in the region. The 142-metre vessel, Nord, is associated with Russian billionaire Alexei Mordashov, who is under Western sanctions. The yacht sailed from Dubai to Muscat over the weekend, making it one of the few private vessels to pass through the strategic waterway in recent months. Although Mordashov is not officially listed as the owner, records indicate the yacht is registered to a company linked to his family. Estimated to be worth over $500 million, the vessel features high-end amenities including a helipad, swimming pool and onboard submarine. The crossing comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. Iran has imposed strict controls over maritime traffic in the strait following its standoff with the United States, […]