Iran's Revolutionary Guard Boards Two Ships Near Strait of Hormuz, One Cockpit Damaged
Iran's IRGC boarded the container ships MSC Francesca and Epaminondas near the Strait of Hormuz. While one vessel sustained cockpit damage, the crew members are reported safe. Iran claimed the move was a response to US maritime piracy.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: April 27, 2026 at 19:41
- 🔍 Collected: April 27, 2026 at 20:01 (20 min after Published)
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 28, 2026 at 22:19 (26h 17m after Collected)
TEHRAN (CNA) — Iranian media reported yesterday that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) boarded two container ships, the 'MSC Francesca' and the 'Epaminondas', near the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping companies confirmed that while one ship's cockpit was damaged during the attack, the crew remains safe. According to Iran's semi-official Tasnim News Agency and maritime tracking data, both vessels are currently stationary near the Strait. Tasnim alleged that the two ships are linked to Israel. The 'MSC Francesca' is part of the fleet of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the world's largest shipping line. The Greek-flagged 'Epaminondas' is owned by Technomar and operated by MSC. Technomar stated that the Epaminondas was boarded approximately 32 km off the coast of Oman. The company confirmed that all 21 crew members, consisting of Ukrainian and Filipino nationals, are unharmed. Iran stated the operation was a response to 'American terrorist forces' maritime piracy' and warned the US and its allies against further military action, reiterating its control over the strategic waterway.