Iran seizes ship with 17 Indians on Board, Israel warns of consequences, video goes viral

 Amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel that have kept world leaders on their toes, Iran has seized a container ship with 25 crew members.

17 Indian sailors are among the 25 crew members on a container ship recently seized by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the waters near the UAE.

Iran’s state news agency reported that Iranian forces used helicopters to seize the container ship MSC Aries near the Strait of Hormuz. The ship is now being taken towards Iranian waters.

NDTV quoted a source saying, “We are aware that Iran has taken control of a cargo ship ‘MSC Aries’. We have learnt that there are 17 Indian nationals onboard. We are in touch with the Iranian authorities through diplomatic channels, both in Tehran and in Delhi, to ensure the security, welfare and early release of the Indian nationals.” 

The shipping company MSC confirmed Iranian authorities boarded their vessel, the MSC Aries. “We regret to confirm that MSC Aries owned by Gortal Shipping Inc which is affiliated to Zodiac Maritime, and chartered to MSC, has been boarded by Iranian authorities via helicopter. She has 25 crew onboard, and we are working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure their wellbeing, and the safe return of the vessel,” the company said in a statement. 

Israel roars

After the seizure of the ship, the Israeli army warned against capturing of the ship

“Iran will bear the consequences for choosing to escalate the situation any further,” military spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a statement.

“Iran is the world’s biggest state sponsor of terror. Its network of terror doesn’t just threaten the people of Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria; the regime in Iran fuels the war in Ukraine and beyond… Israel is on high alert. We have increased our readiness to protect Israel from further Iranian aggression. We are also prepared to respond,” the statement said.