Iran is seeking a $170 million fine from the Israeli owner of the MSC Aries, a cargo ship seized in the Gulf in April 2024 by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), officials announced Tuesday.
The U.S. condemned the seizure at the time as “an act of piracy”, while Israeli officials called on the European Union to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization © Mena Today
Iran is seeking a $170 million fine from the Israeli owner of the MSC Aries, a cargo ship seized in the Gulf in April 2024 by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), officials announced Tuesday.
The vessel, sailing under the Portuguese flag and reportedly managed by Zodiac Maritime, a company linked to Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer, was captured with 25 crew members onboard, amid rising regional tensions following the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.
Iran’s judiciary spokesperson Asghar Jahangir said the ship’s owner is being prosecuted for "financing terrorism" and is identified as a "recognized Zionist and influential figure in Israeli power circles."
The U.S. condemned the seizure at the time as “an act of piracy”, while Israeli officials called on the European Union to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization.
The estimated value of the ship, excluding cargo, is $170 million — the amount Iran now seeks in damages.
By Christian Tober
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday in Washington, where they will discuss negotiations with Iran, Netanyahu's office said on Saturday.
Indirect talks between the United States and Iran have taken place in Oman, raising hopes of renewed diplomacy. US President Donald Trump described the discussions as “very good,” while Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi signaled readiness to reach a quick agreement.
Iran will strike U.S. bases in the Middle East if it is attacked by U.S. forces that have massed in the region, its foreign minister said on Saturday, insisting that this should not be seen as an attack on the countries hosting them.
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