The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has warned carriers to conduct a thorough threat assessment and liaise closely with military forces to ensure they are fully protected against possible aggression by Iranian forces when transiting the region.
This follows the recent seizure of the MSC Aries by members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps while it was en route to India through the Strait of Hormuz.
“The welfare of the 25 innocent seafarers that are now being held hostage is the highest priority and ICS calls for the immediate release of the seafarers and the ship,” said secretary general of the ICS Guy Platten.
“Iran’s seizure of the MSC Aries is a flagrant breach of international law and an assault on freedom of navigation. This reprehensible attack against a merchant ship once again places innocent seafarers on the front lines of geopolitical conflict. Our thoughts are with the 25 seafarers who are now captives of Iran, and with the families who are now in fear of their loved ones’ safety. Iran must release the ship as a matter of urgency.”
The vessel was seized 50 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah, United Arab Emirates. MSC Aries (15 8097 DWT) is Portuguese-flagged, chartered to MSC and owned by Gortal Shipping Inc.
