EAM Jaishankar discusses Indian crew on seized ship with Iranian counterpart

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has raised the issue of 17 Indian crewmen on a commercial vessel seized by Iranian special forces. He urged Iran to avoid escalation following its missile and drone barrage on Israel. The Israeli-linked MSC Aries had Indians among its crew.

Jaishankar spoke to his Iranian counterpart H. Amirabdollahian regarding the release of the crew members and discussed the situation in the region. He emphasized the importance of avoiding escalation, exercising restraint, and returning to diplomacy. He also had a conversation with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz about the developments.

The MSC Aries, with 17 Indian crew members on board along with nationals from other countries, was seized by Iranian forces as it passed through the Strait of Hormuz. The vessel’s operator reported the incident, which occurred about 80 km offshore of the UAE. Jaishankar expressed his concerns and agreed to remain in touch with both Iranian and Israeli officials to address the larger regional situation.