Tensions Rise After Seizure of Indian-Crewed Ship
The Iran-Israel conflict has escalated further after Iran seized an Indian-crewed cargo ship, the MSC Aries, near the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday. This action followed an attack by Iran on Israel on Sunday.
India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed concerns about the 17 Indian nationals aboard the seized vessel during a phone call with his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amirabdollahian. Amirabdollahian assured Jaishankar that the Iranian government was investigating the matter and that Indian officials would be allowed to meet with the crew soon.
The MSC, the company that owns the ship, confirmed that it is working with authorities to ensure the well-being of the 25 crew members, who hail from India, the Philippines, Pakistan, Russia, and Estonia. The company is also seeking the return of the vessel.
Iran's state news agency, IRNA, reported that the Revolutionary Guards seized the MSC Aries because it was "linked to Israel." The Guards boarded the Portuguese-flagged vessel and transferred it to Iranian territorial waters.
Following the incident, Jaishankar spoke to his counterparts in both Iran and Israel, urging them to de-escalate the situation and engage in dialogue and diplomacy. He also called on both parties to exercise restraint.
An Israeli minister stated that the country would take necessary action when the time is right, while the US has emphasized that it will not participate in any Israeli retaliation.
The seizure of the MSC Aries has heightened tensions in the region, raising concerns about further escalation of the conflict between Iran and Israel.