Iran’s foreign minister said the crew of a seized Portuguese-flagged ship linked to Israel have been granted consular access and are expected to be freed, Iranian media reported Saturday.
Days after Tehran vowed retaliation for a suspected Israeli strike, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards seized the container vessel MSC Aries. The vessel’s crew of 25 was detained in the Strait of Hormuz.
These attacks by Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis have impacted global shipping, particularly in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian told his Portuguese counterpart Paulo Rangel in a telephone call that the “humanitarian issue of the release of the ship’s crew is of serious concern to us,” Iranian media said.
He mentioned the crew would be handed over to their ambassadors in Tehran. However, the reports did not specify the timing.
Iran’s foreign ministry has said the Aries was seized for “violating maritime laws” and that there was no doubt it was linked to Israel.
MSC leases the Aries from Gortal Shipping, an affiliate of Zodiac Maritime, which is partly owned by Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer.
The release of the crew represents a potential opening for diplomatic efforts to address broader issues between Iran and Israel. Furthermore, it paves the way for renewed dialogue and confidence-building measures.
Furthermore, it paves the way for renewed dialogue and confidence-building measures. Additionally, it highlights the role of multilateral diplomacy in de-escalating conflicts and promoting stability in the region.
Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of constructive engagement and mutual respect in international relations.
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