Iran Says Crew of Seized Portuguese-flagged Ship Linked to Israel to Be Released

On April 13, 2024, Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized the Portuguese-flagged container ship MSC Aries with 25 crew members in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran claimed the vessel violated maritime laws and was connected to Israel. The ship is leased by MSC from Gortal Shipping, an affiliate of Zodiac Maritime, which is partly owned by Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer.

The seizure came amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, with Iran vowing to retaliate for a suspected Israeli attack on its consulate in Damascus. The White House condemned the seizure as a "blatant violation of international law" and an "act of piracy." The Israeli foreign minister called the Iranian action an act of international piracy.

However, Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian stated the crew has been granted consular access and is expected to be released soon. Amirabdollahian told his Portuguese counterpart that the "humanitarian issue of the release of the ship's crew is of serious concern" to Iran, and that the crew will be turned over to their ambassadors in Tehran. The reports did not specify when the release will occur.

Why this matters: The seizure of the MSC Aries is the latest incident in the ongoing proxy conflict between Iran and Israel, which has escalated tensions in the region. It also highlights the risks to merchant shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil supplies.

The 25 crew members of the MSC Aries comprise 17 Indians, 4 Filipinos, 2 Pakistanis, 1 Russian, and 1 Estonian. The shipping firm MSC confirmed the crew members are safe and discussions are ongoing with Iranian authorities to secure their release. Portugal's foreign ministry summoned Iran's ambassador to condemn the incident and demand the immediate release of the ship.

Key Takeaways

• Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized Portuguese-flagged ship MSC Aries in Strait of Hormuz.
• Iran claimed the vessel violated maritime laws and was connected to Israel.
• The White House condemned the seizure as a "blatant violation of international law".
• Iran's foreign minister said the crew will be released soon, citing "humanitarian" concerns.
• The incident highlights tensions between Iran and Israel, and risks to merchant shipping.