Tensions Rise, Iran Confiscates Israeli Entrepreneurs' Ships In The Strait Of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz is the most important route for world oil trade. (DW/Fars)

JAKARTA - Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed the seizure of a container ship belonging to an Israeli businessman near the Strait of Hormuz, amid increasing tension between the two countries.

Iran's state news agency, IRNA, on Saturday confirmed that the ship named MSC Aries was seized by the IRGC marine unit in a special operation by the helicopter team.

The IRNA report states that the Portuguese-flagged ship has been directed towards Iranian waters.

Previously, Channel 14 Israel and the Times of Israel reported that the confiscated ship belonged to an Israeli businessman's Lokic Maritime shipping company called Eyal Ofer.

The UK Maritime Trade Operation (UKMTO), in a statement, said a ship had been seized in the area and stated that the ship was advised to transit carefully and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO.

The confiscation of the ship comes amid rising tensions in the region, as well as speculation over Iran's military offensive in the near future in response to an attack by Iran's consumer in Syria earlier this month.

At least 13 people were killed in an attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, the Syrian capital, which Iranian authorities say was carried out by Israel. The death toll includes seven Iranian military advisers.

Among those killed were General Mohammad Reza Zahedi, senior IRGC commander in Syria and Lebanon, and his deputy General Hadi Haj Rahemi.

After the attack, Iran's top leaders and the military warned of a strong response. A number of parties speculated on Friday (12/4) that a retaliatory attack would occur in less than 48 hours.

In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Katz said Tel Aviv would respond if Iran attacked its territory.

In recent days, many foreign officials have spoken with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and urged Iran to exercise restraint.

However, Iranian authorities have warned that all options are available.