Iran has released video footage showing its Revolutionary Guard forces seizing two cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. The move has increased tensions in the Gulf region during the ongoing standoff between Iran and the United States.
The video, shown on Iranian state television, appears to show armed personnel approaching the vessels in speedboats before boarding and taking control of them. Iranian officials said the ships were detained over alleged maritime rule violations, including navigation and permit issues.
Reports identified the vessels as the Panama-flagged MSC Francesca and the Liberia-flagged Epaminondas. Both ships were later taken towards the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas. Around 40 crew members were believed to be on board. Several countries have asked for updates on the safety of their citizens working on the vessels.
Panama condemned the seizure, calling it illegal and a threat to international shipping security. Maritime companies are also closely watching the situation, as the Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s busiest trade and oil routes. A large share of global oil supplies passes through the narrow waterway each day.
The United States said the seizures do not break the current ceasefire understanding with Iran because the ships were not linked to the US or Israel. Still, the incident shows that tensions remain despite recent diplomatic contacts.
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