Iran has seized two container ships in the Strait of Hormuz

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy detained two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, which were subsequently towed into Iranian territorial waters. 

This was reported by CNN and The Times of Israel. According to an official statement from the Iranian side, the container ships “MSC Francesca” and “Epaminodes” were detained for operating without the necessary permits and tampering with navigation systems, which allegedly threatened maritime safety.

Local media also reported on a third vessel, owned by Greece, which has been rendered inoperable off the coast of Iran following an attack by the IRGC. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that shots were fired at the two vessels, although there is currently no independent verification of a full seizure. Experts view these actions as another escalation on a strategically important energy transport route.

Iranian authorities insist on the legality of their actions, accusing the crews of creating a danger in the strait. At the same time, the international community is expressing concern over the IRGC’s aggressive tactics toward the commercial fleet. The situation in the region remains tense, as the detention of foreign vessels is often used by Tehran as a tool of political pressure. An investigation is ongoing to determine the exact circumstances of the incidents and the condition of the crews of the detained vessels.

As a reminder, the U.S. military recently struck the Iranian-flagged vessel Touska as it attempted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz despite the blockade.

Official Tehran refused to participate in the second round of peace talks with the United States, which were to take place in Islamabad. 

Iran rejected Trump’s claims regarding the transfer of uranium to the U.S. and accused him of manipulation.