Two MSC Vessels Captured By Iran After Strait Escape Attempt
According to multiple reports, two MSC containerships have been seized by Iran after coming under fire while attempting to exit the Strait of Hormuz.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that the vessels had committed “repeated violations,” including leaving the Strait “in secret,” and warned that it would take “firm action” against any ships breaching the country’s closure of the waterway.
The 11,660 TEU MSC Francesca and the 6,673 TEU MV Epaminondas—the latter being Greek-owned but operated by MSC—were part of a 12-ship convoy that attempted to leave the Strait over the weekend by switching off their AIS tracking transponders. Both vessels are reported to have sustained damage.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that two unnamed ships had been stopped by Iran, although MSC has yet to issue an official statement. Nevertheless, several reports indicate that these were the vessels involved, and tracking data shows them still stationary in the Strait.
Four other MSC vessels successfully transited the Strait: the 19,224 TEU MSC Clara, the 16,000 TEU MSC Grace, the 13,102 TEU MSC Margrit XIII, and the 9,200 TEU MSC Madeleine. All are now showing tracking data as clear of the Arabian Sea.
Two additional vessels are also believed to have crossed successfully. Meanwhile, four CMA CGM containerships, that were also part of the convoy, were intercepted by the IRGC and ordered to reverse course.
The number of containerships stranded in the Gulf is now understood to have fallen to fewer than 100, with a combined capacity of approximately 270,000 TEU, down from a peak of 430,000 TEU.
The team at Atlantic Pacific continue to monitor developments. For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.
