Statement by EMASoH on the seizure and detention by Iran of the Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker Advantage Sweet in the Gulf of Oman and the Panama-flagged oil tanker Niovi in the Strait of Hormuz

The countries participating in the European Maritime Awareness mission in the Strait of Hormuz (EMASoH), Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, The Netherlands, Norway and Portugal, condemn the seizure of the merchant vessel Advantage Sweet by the Iranian Navy on the 27th of April 2023 and the seizure of the merchant vessel Niovi by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Navy on the 3 rd of May 2023 in breach of international law.

At the time of the seizure, the Advantage Sweet was in international waters in the Gulf of Oman whereas the Niovi was sailing outbound in the Strait of Hormuz. Both tankers have been redirected towards the harbor of Bandar Abbas, Iran. We call for the immediate release of the vessels, their crews and cargoes, while ensuring the good treatment of the crew members, their access to consular assistance, supplies, and their free communication. The seizures of the Advantage Sweet and Niovi oil tankers put at risk the maritime safety and freedom of navigation in the Gulf region.
Source: EMASoH