Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has accused Ukraine of attacking an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea, resulting in one sailor’s death and another injury. In response, Tehran summoned a Ukrainian diplomat to condemn what it described as a hostile act and a violation of the United Nations Charter, expressing concerns that such actions could escalate the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The ministry reiterated that Iran has remained neutral in this matter but stressed its commitment to safeguarding national security.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledged successful long-range strikes against vessels suspected of transporting military cargo, claiming cooperation with Iran, although he did not specify the ship mentioned by Tehran. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) provided further details, stating that its operations targeted Russian-operated vessels, asserting that these ships had been used to facilitate military shipments between Iran and Russia amidst ongoing Russian strikes that have targeted Ukrainian ports.
The situation becomes more complicated as both contested merchant vessels are reported by Ukraine to be Russian-flagged, whereas Iran insists the impacted ship was Iranian-owned. No official information has been released regarding the ship’s name or flag, leaving some uncertainties surrounding the incident. Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister has urged the EU and UN for a strong response, though Russia has remained silent on the matter.
