Greece has rejected Iranian claims that a Greek-linked cargo ship was seized in the Strait of Hormuz, insisting the vessel remains under the control of its captain.
Greece’s Shipping Ministry said reports by Iranian state media that the container ship Epaminondas had been taken into custody were inaccurate, clarifying the vessel is stationary off the Iranian coast and still commanded by its master.
Iranian outlets had earlier claimed that two ships, including the Epaminondas and the MSC Francesca, were seized following incidents in the region. However, Greek authorities stressed the ship “has not been seized” despite being targeted.
The vessel, managed by Maersk and chartered by Greek shipowner George Youroukos’ Technomar group, came under fire while sailing near Iranian waters. According to maritime security firm Diaplous, an Iranian Revolutionary Guards patrol boat approached without prior communication and opened fire, causing limited damage to the bridge but no injuries.
Technomar said the incident occurred about 20 nautical miles off Oman as the ship transited the Strait of Hormuz. The Liberian-flagged vessel has 21 crew members from Ukraine and the Philippines, all reported safe.
Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis also confirmed the attack but said he could not verify the seizure, stating: “I can confirm that there was an attack against the Greek cargo ship, but I cannot confirm that this has been seized by the Iranians.”
The Epaminondas was among several vessels involved in the latest regional incidents, with reports also indicating damage to other ships, including the Euphoria and MSC Francesca, though details remain unverified.
According to Greece’s Shipping Ministry, 11 Greek-flagged vessels are currently operating in the Persian Gulf, with 103 ships of Greek interest active across the wider region, as tensions continue to disrupt maritime traffic.
Source: Ekathimerini.
