A Ship Transiting Through Hormuz Seized by Iran is Condemned by Panama
Panama remains in contact with governments in the region to constantly monitor events in Iran.
The Government of the Republic of Panama strongly condemned on Wednesday the illegal seizure of the Panamanian-flagged, Italian-owned vessel MSC Francesca by the authorities of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The ship was transiting the Strait of Hormuz when it was seized. “These types of actions increase tensions in the Gulf and are contrary to international law.
Furthermore, they represent a serious threat to maritime security and constitute an unnecessary escalation at a time when the international community is advocating for the Strait of Hormuz to remain open to international navigation without threats or blackmail of any kind,” the Panamanian government stated. Panama remains in contact with governments in the region to constantly monitor events, prioritizing the safety and well-being of seafarers on board ships throughout its merchant marine.
After experiencing drastic drops in vessel traffic of up to 97% following the start of the war in the Middle East, movement in the Strait of Hormuz cautiously began to resume on Wednesday after the US and Iran agreed to a two-week truce that will allow “safe passage” through the waterway. “In light of these new developments, Panama rejects unilateral actions that undermine the right to free movement and endanger human lives,” he added. The Foreign Ministry noted that Panama has the world’s largest merchant fleet and is a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.
UPDATE: Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) Reports that the Panamanian Vessel Remains at a Standstill after being Intercepted in the Strait of Hormuz
The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) reported that the Panamanian-flagged vessel MSC Francesca, which was intercepted by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps while transiting around the Strait of Hormuz, remains awaiting further instructions from local authorities. The entity indicated that it maintains direct communication with the operators and the company that owns the vessel, to provide the corresponding support in accordance with the powers as a Flag State and in accordance with international maritime law. Regarding the Euphoria vessel, which was fired upon by unidentified vessels, the AMP indicated that no injuries have been reported and the ship is now anchored in Khorfakkan, United Arab Emirates. The AMP reiterated its call to Panamanian-flagged vessels to avoid transiting the Strait of Hormuz whenever possible.
