The MSC Aries, a container ship flying the Portuguese flag, was seized by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz on April 13 for allegedly violating maritime laws. The seizure came after Iran accused Israel of attacking its consulate in Damascus on April 1. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards reportedly boarded the vessel and took it into Iranian waters.
Iran is in contact with Pakistan to confirm if any Pakistani nationals were among the 25 crew members on board. There are reports that at least two Pakistanis, including the ship’s Chief Operating Officer Muhammad Adnan Aziz, were on the vessel.
The ship is operated by MSC, which leases it from Gortal Shipping, an affiliate of Zodiac Maritime. MSC is working with authorities for the safe return of the vessel and crew. Zodiac Maritime is partly owned by Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer.
The seizure has raised concerns about disruptions to shipping in the region. The International Chamber of Shipping and the International Association of Ports and Harbors have condemned the seizure as a breach of international law and an assault on freedom of navigation.
