Iran Accuses U.S. of Seizing Vessel, Holding Crew ‘Hostage’ at Sea

Iran has accused the United States of unlawfully seizing a cargo vessel and detaining its crew, amid rising tensions in the region.

According to Iranian authorities, the U.S. Navy has intensified operations around the Strait of Hormuz, intercepting ships traveling to and from Iranian ports. During this period, a cargo vessel named Tavouska, sailing under the Iranian flag, reportedly attempted to reach the Bandar Abbas Port.

Iran claims the vessel was stopped and seized after it allegedly ignored U.S. naval warnings and continued its course. The move has drawn strong condemnation from Tehran.

In a statement, Iran’s Foreign Ministry described the incident as an “illegal and criminal act,” alleging that the vessel was attacked near Iranian territorial waters in the Gulf of Oman. The statement further claimed that crew members have been threatened and are being held as hostages.

Iran has called on the United Nations Security Council and the International Maritime Organization to condemn the action and ensure the immediate release of the ship and its crew.

Tehran also warned that it would take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and safeguard its citizens.