Iran Frees Crew of Seized MSC Aries Ship in Humanitarian Move

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, announced that all crew members of the MSC Aries have been released after being seized by Iran in its territorial waters last month. The ship, which had links to Israel and turned off its transponders, was confiscated on judicial orders, but the crew was released on humanitarian grounds. The Estonian citizen among the crew is now able to return home, provided the ship’s captain cooperates.

Deputy Director of Maritime Affairs of Iran, Ali Akbar Marzban, confirmed that the 24 crew members are in good health and have no concerns about their well-being. One crew member, an Indian woman, was allowed to return home, leaving crew members of Indian, Pakistani, Philippine, Russian, and Estonian nationalities on board. The Estonian Foreign Minister expressed appreciation for Iran’s humanitarian gesture and hoped for increased cooperation between the two countries.

Amir-Abdollahian emphasized the importance of maritime laws and safety, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz. He also condemned the actions of the Israeli regime in Gaza and called for international cooperation to establish a lasting ceasefire and prevent further crimes. The Estonian Foreign Minister echoed these sentiments and expressed hope for improved relations between Estonia and Iran, calling for joint efforts to stop the war in Gaza.

Source .