Iranian Foreign Minister Announces Release of Seized Portuguese Ship Crew: Amidst Maritime Safety Concerns in the Gulf

The Iranian Foreign Minister, Hossei Amirabdollahian, has announced that the crew of a ship flying the Portuguese flag, which was seized by Tehran and linked to Israel, should be released. In a phone call with his Portuguese counterpart Paulo Rangel, Amirabdollahian expressed concerns about the humanitarian issue of freeing the crew. He promised that they would be handed over to their respective diplomatic representatives in Tehran.

However, the timing for their release was not specified. The Aries container ship was seized in the Strait of Hormuz on April 13 for violating maritime laws and its link to Israel. Meanwhile, a separate incident occurred off the coast of Yemen when multiple missiles damaged a ship claimed by Houthi rebels. The UK Maritime Trade Operations Security Agency reported that the attack took place southwest of Mokha port.

The Houthis claimed responsibility for attacking two ships – the Andromeda Star and MV Maisha – claiming it was in solidarity with Palestinians amidst conflict in Gaza Strip. Despite these challenges, efforts continue to ensure maritime safety and security in the region.