New Delhi: Reports indicate that among the 25 crew members on the cargo ship ‘MSC Aries’, apprehended by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, 17 are Indian nationals, as per sources.
“We are aware that a cargo ship ‘MSC Aries’ has been taken control of by Iran. We have learnt that there are 17 Indian nationals onboard. We are in touch with the Iranian authorities through diplomatic channels, both in Tehran and in Delhi, to ensure the security, welfare, and early release of Indian nationals,” the sources revealed, as cited in media reports.
Also Read | Israeli Military Issues Warning: Iran to Face Consequences for Escalation
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards intercepted the Israeli-linked cargo vessel, in the wake of Tehran’s announcement of potential closure of the vital shipping route and a vow to retaliate against an Israeli airstrike on its consulate in Syria.
Also Read | Middle East Crisis: Indian Workers Face Uncertainty Amid Escalating Tensions Between Iran and Israel
Also Read | Salman Rushdie Recalls Terrifying Stabbing Incident: Attacker ‘Came Like a Squat Missile
Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency disclosed that a Guards helicopter had boarded and brought the Portuguese-flagged MSC Aries into Iranian waters, citing its connection to Israel. MSC, the operator of the Aries, confirmed Iran’s seizure of the vessel and assured cooperation “with the relevant authorities” for its safe return and the well-being of its 25 crew members.
