Two container ships attempting to leave Gulf seized

TEHRAN: Iran has said it seized two container ships attempting to leave the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, after firing on them and a third vessel in the first such incidents since its conflict with the United States and Israel began earlier this year.

According to Iran’s Tasnim news agency, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy carried out the operation, warning that any disruption to security in the strategic waterway would be treated as a “red line.”

The IRGC said the Panama-flagged MSC Francesca and Liberia-flagged Epaminondas were operating without proper authorisation and interfering with navigation systems.

The Epaminondas reported coming under fire about 20 nautical miles northwest of Oman, with its bridge damaged after being hit by gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades.

Greek operator Technomar Shipping confirmed all 21 crew members were safe.

The MSC Francesca was also struck but not damaged, while a third vessel, Euphoria, was fired upon but continued sailing to the UAE.

The Strait of Hormuz, which carries around 20 per cent of global oil and gas trade, has seen sharply reduced traffic since the conflict escalated in February.

Oil prices rose following the incidents, with Brent crude climbing above $99 a barrel amid supply concerns.

Maritime experts warn the latest seizures highlight growing risks in one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.