Indian Sailor Returns Home After Ship Seized by Iran, 16 Crew Members Remain

Ann Tessa Joseph, an Indian deck cadet who was among the 17 Indian crew members aboard the container ship MSC Aries seized by Iran's Revolutionary Guards, has safely returned home to Cochin, Kerala. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the Indian mission in Tehran remains in contact with the remaining 16 Indian crew members, who are reported to be in good health and in touch with their families in India.

The MSC Aries, a Portugal-flagged vessel with alleged links to Israel, was seized by Iran near the Strait of Hormuz on April 13. The ship had a total crew of 25, including the 17 Indians. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had earlier spoken to his Iranian counterpart about the matter, pressing for the release of the Indian nationals.

According to the MEA, the Indian mission in Tehran and the Iranian government worked together to facilitate Joseph's return. "The Indian Mission in Tehran and the Iranian government facilitated the safe return of Ann Tessa Joseph," an MEA spokesperson said. The ministry added that it is in constant communication with the Iranian authorities to ensure the well-being of the remaining crew members.

The seizure of the MSC Aries comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, with Iran hinting at its ability to disrupt maritime traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of international shipping in the region.

Why this matters: The seizure of the MSC Aries and the detention of its crew highlight the ongoing tensions in the Persian Gulf region and the potential risks to international maritime trade. The safe return of the Indian sailor and the efforts to secure the release of the remaining crew members underscore the diplomatic challenges in navigating complex geopolitical situations.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had sought the intervention of the External Affairs Ministry to secure the safe return of the Indian nationals, including three from the state, who were on board the seized ship. The Iranian ambassador to India stated that the Indian sailors are free to leave Iran, but the return of the other 16 Indians is more complex as the ship itself has been impounded. The Indian government continues to engage with Iranian authorities to ensure the well-being and safe return of the remaining crew members.

Key Takeaways

• Indian deck cadet Ann Tessa Joseph returned home from Iran after ship seizure.
• 17 Indian crew members were aboard the container ship MSC Aries seized by Iran.
• India's MEA is in contact with Iran to ensure well-being of remaining 16 crew.
• Ship seizure highlights tensions between Iran and Israel, risks to maritime trade.
• Kerala CM sought MEA's intervention to secure return of 3 Indian nationals on board.