Indians aboard ship seized by Iran to be released when contractual obligations are accomplished: MEA

NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs (MEA) provided updates on the situation regarding the Indian crew aboard an Israeli-linked cargo ship seized by Iran. According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, one of the 17 Indian crew members has safely returned to India, while the others are safe. Jaiswal said that the crew members will be released once their contractual obligations are fulfilled.

Iran's envoy to India, Iraj Elahi, affirmed that the Indian nationals, crew members of the MSC Aries, are not detained and are free to return to India. This statement follows the return of a woman cadet named Ann Tessa Joseph, who was among the 17 Indians onboard the vessel. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the Indian mission in Tehran is in contact with the remaining crew members and is ensuring their well-being.

Earlier, external affairs minister S Jaishankar had a conversation with his Iranian counterpart, foreign minister Amir Abdollahian, addressing the release of the Indian crew members and discussing the situation in West Asia. The leaders emphasized the importance of restraint and diplomacy amidst escalating tensions in the region.

The cargo ship, MSC Aries, was seized by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy on April 13, with 17 Indian nationals onboard. The vessel was last seen on April 12, sailing towards the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Dubai.

(With inputs from agencies)