Two container ships have been seized by Iran near the Strait of Hormuz, with approximately 40 crew members aboard. The vessels, one operated by MSC and another chartered by the firm, were taken to Bandar Abbas following a U.S. seizure of an Iranian ship three days prior. According to sources, around 20 armed Iranian personnel boarded the ships, but the crew’s well-being has been assured, with ongoing negotiations between MSC and Iranian authorities.
The MSC Francesca has a crew that includes four Montenegrin sailors and two Croatians, while the Liberia-flagged Epaminondas has 21 crew members, primarily Ukrainians and Filipinos. Both ships had their tracking systems turned off, but maritime security sources indicate they are near Bandar Abbas. Authorities from the crew members’ home countries are actively seeking updates on their situation.
The incident has impacted oil prices due to disruptions in Gulf exports, as the Strait of Hormuz is crucial for global oil transport. Brent crude oil prices rose significantly, reflecting concerns over shipping security. The U.S. has responded with a blockade targeting Iran-linked vessels, further escalating tensions in the region.
