Iran Considers Release of MSC Aries Crew a Humanitarian Matter
Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian has emphasized the humanitarian aspect of the situation concerning the crew of the Portuguese-flagged vessel MSC Aries, who have been held since April 13th. The vessel, chartered by MSC, was seized by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards in the Straits of Hormuz, with Iranian authorities citing alleged violations of international maritime laws due to its Israeli-linked ownership.
During a phone conversation with Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel, Amirabdollahian conveyed Iran’s stance, stating, “We seriously consider the release of the ship’s crew as a humanitarian issue.” He further assured that ambassadors in Tehran have been informed of the crew’s access to consular services, release, and extradition.
The crew comprises 25 individuals from India, the Philippines, Pakistan, Russia, and Estonia. Deck Cadet Ann Tessa Joseph, an Indian seafarer, has already been reported as released and returned to Cochin on April 18th.
Owned by Gortal Shipping, a finance company associated with Zodiac Maritime controlled by Israeli billionaire Eyal Ofer, MSC Aries’s seizure has drawn widespread condemnation from the industry. Sixteen associations penned an open letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, denouncing the vessel’s seizure and highlighting the precarious position of shipping amidst geopolitical conflicts.
