Iran’s Revolutionary Guard seized two container ships, MSC Francesca and Epaminondas, in the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, April 22nd, prompting Israeli threats.
Iran Confirms Ship Seizures
Iran’s state media reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps conducted an operation on Wednesday, April 22nd. State television subsequently aired footage showing the seizure of the vessels.
The footage depicts Iranian motorboats approaching the container ships and armed soldiers boarding two of them.
Vessels Identified and Crew Status
Reuters identified the seized ships as the MSC Francesca and Epaminondas. Iranian military officials accused the vessels of violating regulations in the Strait of Hormuz.
The MSC Francesca, flagged in Panama, had Montenegrin sailors aboard, confirmed by Montenegrin authorities. The Epaminondas, flagged in Liberia, was operated by a Greek crew, with its operator, Technomar Shipping Inc., confirming the attack. All sailors are reported safe.
Iranian Military Statement
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stated that the seized ships have been transferred to Iranian territorial waters for inspection of cargo and documents.
The Iranian Navy warned that any actions disrupting maritime traffic or security in the Strait of Hormuz would face a “firm and legal response.”
Israeli Response and Threats
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel awaits a “green light” from the United States to resume military action against Iran.
Katz indicated that, with U.S. approval, Israel would begin by targeting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and “plunge Iran into a dark age,” delivering a “lethal blow” to its most vulnerable points.
Strait of Hormuz Closure Threat
Iranian authorities have stated they will not reopen the Strait of Hormuz if the United States does not lift the blockade on Iranian maritime transport, imposed during the current ceasefire which began on April 8th. Iran claims the U.S. has violated the terms of the truce.