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Iran issues indictment over seized Israeli-Linked ship
Iran has issued an indictment regarding the container ship MSC Aries, seized last year by the Revolutionary Guards in the Strait of Hormuz, a judiciary spokesman, Asghar Jahangir, announced on Tuesday.
Prosecutors completed their investigation and sent the case to trial, charging the Israeli-born owner of the ship with financing terrorism, alleging transfers totaling approximately $1.07 million. Iranian authorities claim the funds supported Israeli military activities. The proceedings are being conducted by Tehran’s international affairs prosecution branch “in line with international and domestic law.”
The MSC Aries, flying a Portuguese flag at the time, was operated by Swiss-based MSC and leased from Gortal Shipping, affiliated with Israel’s Zodiac Maritime, partly owned by businessman Eyal Ofer. The vessel was intercepted on April 13, 2024, after Iran alleged violations of navigation rules and noncompliance with maritime authorities. Inspections reportedly revealed “hazardous and harmful materials” in part of the cargo.
The ship’s estimated value, excluding cargo, was about $170 million. Iranian officials further claimed the owner had served in Israel’s air force and funded naval units via a family foundation, describing these actions as “terror financing” under Iranian law.
Diplomatic reactions included condemnation from Portugal, which summoned Iran’s ambassador and demanded the ship’s release. Nearly a month later, seven of the 25 crew members were released, leaving others still aboard at the time. The seizure occurred a day before Iran launched a missile and drone attack on Israel in retaliation for an Israeli strike on its consulate in Damascus.