Photo of Iranian helicopter landing on MSC Aries
IRNA reported on April 13 that an IRGC helicopter landed on the MSC Aries and brought the ship into Iranian territorial waters.
International shipping company MSC has chartered the MSC Aries from Gortal Shipping, a subsidiary of Zodiac Maritime. Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer has a stake in Zodiac Maritime.
MSC confirmed on the same day that MSC Aries with a crew of 25 people had been seized by Iran. "We are working closely with relevant authorities to ensure the safety of the crew and the safe recovery of the vessel," Reuters quoted MSC as saying.
Iran prepares to retaliate against Israel, President Biden warns 'do not' act
The incident occurred amid heightened tensions in the region since Israel launched a military operation in the Gaza Strip in October 2023.
Iran has threatened to retaliate for the airstrike on its consulate in Damascus, the capital of Syria, on April 1 that killed seven IRGC officers, including two senior commanders. The seizure of the cargo ship came after Tehran threatened to block the Strait of Hormuz.
Responding to Iran's seizure of the MSC Aries, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, Israeli military spokesman, said Iran would face consequences for choosing to escalate tensions.
Hours earlier, US President Joe Biden predicted that Iran would attack Israel "soon" and warned Tehran not to proceed, according to CNN.
"We will defend Israel to the fullest extent. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed," he said.
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