19 Apr. 24
Ann Tessa Joseph, a deck cadet from Thrissur, Kerala, has successfully returned home after being part of the crew aboard the MSC Aries container ship, which was seized by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on April 13, 2024. This update was confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India, with Ms. Joseph’s safe return occurring on April 18.
The situation involving the vessel and its crew members was detailed in a report by Reuters, citing official statements from the MEA. Currently, the Indian diplomatic mission based in Tehran is actively engaged in coordinating efforts to secure the release of 16 other Indian crew members who remain on board the detained vessel.
In its official statement, the MEA emphasized that all crew members, including those still on board, are reported to be in good health and are maintaining regular contact with their families in India. The ministry also disclosed that India’s Foreign Minister, S. Jaishankar, recently held discussions with his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amirabdollahian, to seek the prompt release of the Indian crew members from the seized ship.
The incident occurred shortly after Iran had announced plans for retaliation following a suspected Israeli strike on its consulate in Damascus on April 1. The vessel’s seizure took place in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway crucial for international maritime traffic, highlighting the geopolitical significance of the region.
Ms. Joseph’s safe return has brought relief to her family and community in Thrissur, while efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining Indian crew members from the detained container ship amidst ongoing diplomatic engagements between India and Iran.
