• Source:JND
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Iran on Wednesday seized two cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. This is the first reported seizure of ships by Tehran since the conflict began on February 28. The action comes amid rising tensions in the region following the US Naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait.

According to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stopped two vessels and directed them toward Iranian ports. The ships were identified as the Liberia-flagged container vessel Epaminondas, heading to Gujarat, India and the Panama-flagged MSC-Francesca, which was en route to Sri Lanka’s Hambantota.

Why Did Iran Seize Ships?

The ships were seized after they were found operating without proper permission and allegedly interfering with navigation systems. IRGC Officials claimed the vessels were violating maritime rules and threatening security in the Strait of Hormuz. While Tehran had earlier asserted that it would ensure safe passage for Indian-bound ships in the Strait, it also made it clear that strict maritime rules must be followed.

According to Press TV report, the IRGC said, “Two violating ships, MSC-FRANCESCA" (linked to the Zionist regime) and "EPAMINODES, which endangered maritime security by operating without the necessary permits and tampering with navigation systems, were seized by the IRGC Navy and directed to the coast of Iran.”

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IRGC Warns Of Strict Action

The IRGC further warned that it maintains strict monitoring of the strait, and any violation would be dealt with firmly. The statement noted that disruption of order and safety in the Strait of Hormuz would be considered a “red line.”

“The IRGC Navy reiterates that any action to disrupt the implementation of the Islamic Republic of Iran's announced rules for traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, as well as any activity contrary to the safe passage of this strategic waterway, will be continuously monitored by the IRGC Navy, and violators will be dealt with decisively and legally,” the IRGC statement added.

Earlier on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump stated that the US Navy would continue its blockade of Iran’s ports and coastline until Tehran presents a “unified proposal.” His remark came while announcing the extension of a ceasefire with Iran.

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