Iran has allowed Indian crew from seized MSC Aries ship to receive consular assistance.

In Dubai, Iran has announced that they will be granting consular access to the crew of a Portuguese-flagged ship that was seized by Iranian forces two weeks ago. This development has raised hopes for the early release and extradition of the mostly Indian crew members.

The MSC Aries, a container ship with 25 crew members including 17 Indians, was seized by Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard on April 13. This action was a result of ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel and a series of attacks between the two countries.

According to a statement from Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the newly-appointed Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel had a phone conversation with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amirabdollahian. During their conversation, the two leaders discussed bilateral relations and the situation in the region, with a particular focus on the recent developments in Palestine.

It was during this conversation that both sides exchanged their latest views on the Portuguese-flagged Israeli ship that was seized by Iranian forces. Amirabdollahian expressed that the release of the ship's crew is being considered as a humanitarian issue and that their ambassadors in Tehran have been informed of their access to consular services, release, and extradition.

One of the crew members, Ann Tessa Joseph, was released on April 18 after "concerted efforts" by the Indian mission in Tehran and the Iranian government. However, the remaining 16 Indian crew members are still in Iran. In a statement, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal mentioned that there are some technicalities involved in their return.

Jaiswal also reassured that the 16 crew members are in good health and that the Indian mission has been given consular access to them by Iranian authorities. The Indian officials have met with the crew and are in constant touch with their families. However, their return will depend on certain contractual obligations that need to be fulfilled.

Overall, the situation seems to be progressing towards a positive resolution for the crew members of the MSC Aries. With consular access being granted and efforts being made by both the Indian and Iranian governments, it is hoped that the remaining 16 crew members will also be able to return home safely soon.

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