Agencies | Tehran:
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Wednesday released a video purportedly showing its naval forces intercepting two commercial vessels—MSC Francesca and Epaminondas—in the Strait of Hormuz, shortly after reports emerged that ships transiting the route had come under fire.
In an official statement, the IRGC Navy said the vessels were detained for allegedly “jeopardising maritime security,” operating without necessary permits, and reportedly tampering with navigation systems. The ships were subsequently directed towards the Iranian coast, it added.
According to Nour News, affiliated with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, IRGC forces opened fire on the first vessel, identified as Epaminondas, after it allegedly ignored repeated warnings. The vessel was reportedly en route to Mundra port in Gujarat.
The released video shows small boats carrying armed personnel approaching and boarding the vessels. However, independent verification has raised questions over the timing and authenticity of the footage.
BBC Verify reported that the visuals appear to have been recorded several hours after the initial incident. Based on vessel movement data, the footage is estimated to have been filmed around 5 pm local time, suggesting it does not capture the initial interception.
The analysis also pointed to possible inconsistencies, noting that a hatch used by IRGC personnel to board MSC Francesca was already open before their arrival. Another segment appears to have been recorded from inside the vessel, indicating prior access.
Additionally, footage shows a vessel approaching the stern of the Greek-owned Epaminondas. However, Greek authorities have denied that the ship was seized, stating that the captain remains in control.
Data from ship-tracking platform MarineTraffic indicated that Epaminondas was located in the Gulf of Oman at the time, before reportedly moving north-west towards Qeshm Island. Tracking signals were later switched off, further adding to the uncertainty surrounding the incident.
The developments highlight escalating tensions in the region and renewed concerns over the safety of commercial shipping through one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors.
