Hormuz: Iran Seizes Two MSC Ships After Convoy Breakout Attempt
According to several reports, two MSC containerships were seized by Iran after coming under fire while attempting to leave the Strait of Hormuz.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the vessels had committed “repeated violations,” including departing the Strait “covertly,” and warned it would take “decisive action” against any ships that breach the country’s closure of the waterway.
The 11,660 TEU MSC Francesca and the 6,673 TEU MV Epaminondas—the latter Greek-owned but operated by MSC—were among a 12-ship convoy that attempted to exit the Strait over the weekend by switching off their AIS tracking systems. Both ships are reported to have sustained damage.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that two unnamed vessels had been stopped by Iran, although MSC has not yet issued an official statement. However, multiple reports suggest these were the ships involved, with tracking data showing them still stationary in the Strait.
Four other MSC vessels successfully passed through 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 indicating they have cleared the Arabian Sea.
Two additional vessels are also believed to have transited successfully. Meanwhile, four CMA CGM containerships that were part of the same convoy were intercepted by the IRGC and instructed to turn back.
The number of containerships stranded in the Gulf is now estimated to have dropped below 100, with a combined capacity of around 270,000 TEU—down from a peak of 430,000 TEU.
The team at Killick Martin continues to monitor the situation. For further information, please feel free to get in touch.
