Statement by the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Condemning the US Attack on an Iranian Merchant Ship

The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the US attack on an Iranian merchant ship and the hostage-taking of the crew and their families.

News ID: 87713

Date: 21 April 2026 - 08:56

TEHRAN (Defapress) - The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the US attack on an Iranian merchant ship and the hostage-taking of the crew and their families.

In part of the statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the US attack on an Iranian merchant ship, warned of the dangerous consequences of this illegal and criminal act by the US, and stressed the need for the immediate release of the Iranian ship, sailors, crew, and their families.

The statement states: “This act, which was accompanied by intimidation of the sailors and crew of the ship and their families, is maritime piracy and a terrorist act, and is another example of a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement dated May 9, 2026, and is considered an act of aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Iran, while warning of the very dangerous consequences of this illegal and criminal act by the United States, emphasizes the need for the immediate release of the Iranian ship, its sailors, crew, and their families.

Without a doubt, the Islamic Republic of Iran will use all its capabilities to defend Iran’s national interests and security and protect the rights and dignity of the Iranian people. Obviously, the United States bears full responsibility for the further complication of the situation in the region.”