India Dismisses Claims of Deal with Iran Over Seized Vessels

The Ministry of External Affairs has labeled as 'baseless' the reports suggesting that Iran requested the release of three seized vessels in exchange for the safe passage of Indian-flagged ships through the crucial Strait of Hormuz.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified at an inter-ministerial briefing that there have been 'no discussions' of this nature with Iranian authorities. He emphasized that the vessels in question are neither Iranian-owned nor manned by Iranian crew and are not even oil tankers.

Contrary to claims, the seized vessels are reportedly linked to US sanctions. Meanwhile, India remains actively engaged with Iran to ensure the safe return of more than 20 Indian-flagged merchant ships currently navigating the strategically vital strait.