Recently in a move, Bharat has appealed to Iran for the release of nearly 40 Bharatiya seafarers who have been detained from four different merchant ships over the past eight months. The request was made by Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in Tehran.
The detained seafarers were working aboard four ships—Steven, Global Cherylyn, Margol, and MSC Aries—seized by Iran on various charges, including smuggling and alleged links with Israel. The situation has strained bilateral relations between the two nations.
Sonowal’s visit to Tehran also marked the signing of a significant 10-year contract between Bharat and Iran, aimed at operating the strategic port of Chabahar. This contract is pivotal in expanding trade routes with Central Asia and enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries.
During the meeting, Sonowal emphasized the significance of releasing the Bharatiya seafarers held in Iranian custody. Responding, Abdollahian expressed Iran’s willingness to consider the request positively. However, he cited legal procedures that must be followed, indicating a potential delay in the release process.
Among the detained ships, Steven was seized in September 2023 by the Iranian Coast Guard on charges of smuggling. The crew, including nine Bharatiya members, has faced detainment, with some individuals still unaccounted for.
Consular access to the crew has been a challenge, with the Bharatiya Embassy in Tehran actively engaging with Iranian authorities for updates.
Similarly, Global Cherylyn and Margol were seized in December 2023 and January 2024, respectively, on charges related to fuel smuggling. While consular access was granted to some crew members of Global Cherylyn, access for Margol’s captain, Sujeet Singh, is pending. Notably, a penalty was imposed on Singh by Iranian authorities.
The most recent incident involved the seizure of merchant ship MSC Aries in April 2024, allegedly due to its links with Israel. Following diplomatic efforts, one Bharatiya crew member was released, highlighting ongoing negotiations for the remaining detainees’ freedom.
As the diplomatic dialogue continues between Bharat and Iran, efforts are underway to ensure the safe return of the detained seafarers. Both countries are navigating through legal procedures and diplomatic channels to resolve the situation and uphold the welfare of the affected individuals.
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