The assertion, which came during Noem's testimony to the House Homeland Security Committee, provided the Trump administration's most thorough assessment so far of why it took control of the vessel on Wednesday.
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Seizures of more tankers could put a stranglehold on Venezuela's economy, which is exceptionally dependent on oil to keep the government running and pay for basic necessities.
The U.S. is preparing to intercept more ships transporting Venezuelan oil following the seizure of a tanker this week, sources familiar with the matter said.
Venezuela's allies have gained new prominence amid US pressure campaign and military build-up.
The latest move has its roots in Biden-era policy.
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Leavitt said the seized ship will head to a U.S. port, while investigators interview crewmembers.
White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said sanctioned vessels "fuel narcoterrorism" and "rogue and illegitimate regimes around the world".
Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed "solidarity with the Venezuelan people" amid growing tensions between Venezuela's leader, Nicolás Maduro, and the Trump administration.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirms U.S. plans to seize oil from Venezuelan tanker captured off Venezuela's coast on Wednesday.