External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar commended the Indian Embassy in Iran for successfully securing the return of one of the 17 Indian crew members from the vessel seized by Iran. He emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to ensuring safety both domestically and internationally.
Great work, @India_in_Iran . Glad that Ms. Ann Tessa Joseph has reached home. #ModiKiGuarantee always delivers, at home or abroad. https://t.co/VxYMppcPZr
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) April 18, 2024
Jaishankar praised the efforts of @India_in_”Jaishankar Applauds Indian Embassy for Crew’s Return”Iran and expressed satisfaction that Ann Tessa Joseph, a crew member from Thrissur, Kerala, had safely returned home. This achievement was seen as a diplomatic victory for India.
Ms. Joseph, a deck cadet on the Israel-linked cargo ship MSC Aries seized by Iran on April 13, arrived safely at Cochin International Airport. The Regional Passport Officer of Cochin welcomed her.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that Ms. Joseph’s return was a result of collaboration between the Indian Mission in Tehran and the Iranian government. They also mentioned ongoing communication with the remaining 16 crew members, who are reported to be in good health and in contact with their families.
The MEA highlighted that the Indian Mission in Tehran is actively engaged with both the remaining crew members and Iranian authorities to ensure their well-being. This effort included a conversation between External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal provided details of Ms. Joseph’s release and expressed gratitude for the cooperation of Iranian authorities in facilitating her return. The mission continues to work towards the well-being of the remaining crew members.
The container ship MSC Aries, associated with Israel, was seized by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy near the Strait of Hormuz, with 17 Indian nationals on board. The ship’s last known location was near Dubai on April 12, heading towards the Strait of Hormuz.