The Venezuelan government said on Saturday that Iran offered its cooperation "in all areas" to confront "piracy and international terrorism" by the United States, following a call between the foreign ministers of both countries.

The call addressed "recent events in the Caribbean, especially the threats and acts of piracy by the United States “United and the theft of ships loaded with Venezuelan oil,” Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil wrote via Telegram.

Solidarity from the Iranian Government

“Venezuela received a full show of solidarity from the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as its offer of cooperation in all areas to confront piracy and international terrorism that the United States seeks to impose through military force,” the high-ranking official added after his conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araqchi.

Iran is one of the main international allies of President Nicolas Maduro, who denounces a plan to overthrow him originating in Washington.

Second Tanker Seizure

The United States deployed a significant military fleet in the Caribbean for alleged counter-narcotics operations, although since the beginning of the month it has seized two oil tankers carrying Venezuelan crude as part of a “total” naval blockade. decreed by President Donald Trump.

The second seizure occurred this Saturday, according to US media. The first was 10 days ago, and authorities explained that the vessel was used by Iran and Venezuela.

The relationship between Iran and Venezuela strengthened with the rise to power of Hugo Chavez and continued under his successor, Maduro. Iran has assisted Venezuela in the past with shipments of fuel, food, and medicine.

China and Russia, other major allies of Venezuela, also expressed solidarity with Maduro in the face of the US deployment.