Iran’s IRGC Seizes Two Container Ships in Strait of Hormuz, Including India-Bound Vessel

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has seized two commercial container ships in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions in the vital waterway just hours after U.S. President Donald Trump announced an indefinite extension of the ceasefire with Iran.

The vessels, identified as the Panama-flagged MSC Francesca and the Liberia-flagged Epaminondas, were intercepted by IRGC naval forces. A third ship, the Euphoria, was also targeted, sustaining heavy damage to its bridge and left disabled or stranded off Iran’s coast, according to maritime security sources and the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations.

Iranian state media reported that the ships were seized for maritime violations, including operating without proper authorization, tampering with navigation systems such as turning off Automatic Identification Systems, and attempting to transit the strait covertly. The IRGC described the actions as a firm response to vessels crossing a “red line” and warned that any disruption to order and security in the Strait of Hormuz would not be tolerated. The two seized ships have been escorted to Iranian territorial waters and are now positioned off the Iranian coast.

The Epaminondas, a Greek-owned vessel operated under charter to Mediterranean Shipping Company, was reportedly India-bound, with shipping data indicating a destination linked to Gujarat. Crews aboard the affected ships are reported to be safe, though the incidents have sparked concerns over crew welfare and potential disruptions to international shipping.

The seizures follow President Trump’s announcement extending the U.S.-Iran ceasefire indefinitely to facilitate ongoing negotiations amid a broader regional conflict that erupted earlier in 2026. Despite the diplomatic move, the IRGC’s actions underscore persistent frictions, including Iran’s assertions of control over the strait in response to perceived unauthorized passages and a partial U.S. blockade.