Tensions between Iran and the US continue to stir as the US demanded on Thursday Iran to release the vessel it had seized in the Gulf.
The US has said it will work “aggressively” to find a solution to guarantee free passage of vessels through the vital waterway.
The vessel was seized by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards who claim the foreign tanker was smuggling fuel. The US insisted Iran must free the ship and its crew and stop thwarting vessels in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
Washington holds Iran responsible for a series of attacks on shipping since mid-May. Tehran rejects the accusations and fears have been raised of a potential war.
“The United States strongly condemns the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Naby’s continued harassment of vessels and interference with safe passage in and around the Strait of Hormuz.” a State Department spokesperson said.
“Iran must cease this illicit activity and release the reportedly seized crew and vessel immediately.”
Data shows the last signal from the vessel was on Sunday when it was in the Strait of Hormuz, it has been reported shipping companies hired un-armed security as an extra safety measure.
Britain has urged Iran to ease tensions in the Gulf. On Thursday, Defense Secretary Penny Mordaunt told a conference, Britain has “always, and will continue, to protect shipping and the free flow of goods in that area.”
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