The tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, following Iran seizing the British-flagged Stena Impero, are in the spotlight as the whole shipping industry waits for any updates on the situation. The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs published a statement, highlighting the importance of the immediate release of the crewmembers and the continuation of the seized vessel’s journey.
According to the Ministry’s statement, as a seafaring country, Greece supports a free navigation on a global scale, with no barriers and no danger for crews and vessels.
Actions against the freedom of navigation, as enshrined in international law, cannot but be condemned. The immediate release of the crew and the unimpeded continuation of “STENA IMPERO’s” journey is expected, as a demonstration of respect for the provisions of international law.
Overall, the tension in Strait of Hormuz peaked after the UK arrested the Indian Captain and Chief Officer of the Iranian tanker ‘Grace 1’, a few days after the ship was seized suspected of breaching EU sanctions by shipping oil to Syria.
Following this event, Iran seized Stena Impero, leading a part of the shipping sector addressing that this was an act of retaliation and an act against international shipping laws.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Zarif commented on Iran seizing the British vessel that
Iran took measures against a ship in the Strait of Hormuz to implement international law, not in retaliation to actions by Britain.
For the time being, there are no developments concerning the freeing of the vessel or its crew, and the shipping industry stands by, looking for solutions in this problem.
