Iran’s Revolutionary Guards intercepted a Portuguese-flagged cargo ship, MSC Aries, in the Strait of Hormuz, claiming it is linked to Israel. The move follows recent threats of retaliation over an Israeli strike on its Syria consulate.
MSC, which operates the Aries, confirmed Iran had seized the ship and said it was working “with the relevant authorities” for its safe return and the wellbeing of its 25 crew.
MSC leases the Aries from Gortal Shipping, an affiliate of Zodiac Maritime, Zodiac said in a statement, adding that MSC is responsible for all the vessel’s activities. Zodiac is partly owned by Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer.
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Amid escalating regional tensions, Iran has warned of retaliation for Israeli actions in Syria, while U.S. President Biden cautioned against Iranian attacks on Israel.
Israel’s military vows consequences for Iran’s actions, with Israeli Foreign Minister Katz labeling the seizure as piracy, further fueling the volatile situation.