Iran seizes container ship linked to Israeli billionaire in Strait of Hormuz

In the Strait of Hormuz, the Iranian army seized the MSC Aries, a container ship flying under the Portuguese flag, with the assistance of helicopters. This vessel is part of the fleet owned by the Zodiac group, which is owned by Israeli billionaire Eyal Ofer. The Iranian state news agency IRNA confirmed the takeover. The vessel is now being directed into Iranian territorial waters.

A video has surfaced online, filmed by a container ship's crew member. It captures commandos rappelling down onto the deck from a helicopter, likely operated by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard.

Reports indicate that the vessel was en route from the United Arab Emirates to India when it was seized, marking the start of its journey. The Strait of Hormuz serves as a crucial maritime corridor, linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and extending to the Arabian Sea.

While the authorities in Tehran have yet to make a statement regarding the incident, the Iranian state news agency has confirmed the container ship's capture. The current status of the MSC Aries crew remains uncertain.

The incident involving the seizure of a vessel associated with Israel is happening against a backdrop of escalating tensions between Tehran and Tel Aviv.

This rise in hostility follows an incident last week where Israeli forces attacked the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, resulting in the deaths of seven members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps, including two generals in charge of Iran's foreign military engagements.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has vowed retaliation against Israel. "Our brave men will punish the malicious regime. We will make sure that they repent for this and similar crimes, God willing," - he proclaimed