4 Filipino Sailors on Board Israel-Linked Ship Seized by Iran

Jerusalem, 14 April, 2024 (TPS) -- MANILA, April 14, 2024 (PNA)
The Philippine Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Sunday confirmed that four Filipino seafarers are on board the container ship MSC Aries that was seized by Iranian authorities while traversing the Strait of Hormuz, near the Gulf of Oman.

Upon the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the DMW contacted the families of the Filipino seafarers, assuring them of full government support and assistance.

“We are also in coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the licensed manning agency (LMA), ship manager and operator to ensure the safety and well-being as well as work on the release of our dear seafarers,” the advisory read.

On Saturday, Iran’s state-run IRNA News Agency reported that the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Special Naval Force had seized the Portuguese-flagged MCS Aries ship near the Strait of Hormuz, saying it was linked to Israel.

MSC, which operates the vessel, confirmed the seizure saying that they are now working with relevant authorities for the safe return and well-being of its 25 crewmembers, including the four Filipinos.

MSC Aries is operated by the Zodiac Maritime Shipping Company, which Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer partly owns.

In a statement, the International Chamber of Shipping condemned the seizure and called for the immediate release of the seafarers and the ship.

On Saturday night, Iran launched more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel.

Iran has vowed to avenge an airstrike on its embassy compound in Damascus on April 1. Killed in the strike was Quds Force commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi and seven other IRGC officers.