Iran Seizes India-Bound Ship in Strait of Hormuz; Rajasthan Officer Stranded

Overview of the Incident

On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran intercepted and took control of a Liberian-flagged container vessel, the Epaminondas, as it was transiting the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The ship was en route to Mundra Port in Gujarat, India, from the Persian Gulf when it was forcibly boarded and diverted to Iranian territorial waters.

Indian Officer Among the Trapped Crew

The situation has gained significant attention in India due to the presence of Sanjay Mahar, a 38-year-old Merchant Navy Vice-Captain from Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan.

Distress Reports: Mahar managed to send a video and messages to his family, stating that Iranian forces opened fire on the ship before boarding.
Crew Status: There are a total of 21 crew members on board. While the rest of the crew comprises nationals from Ukraine, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka, Sanjay Mahar is reported to be the only Indian national on this specific vessel.

Iran’s Justification for the Seizure

According to Iranian state media and the IRGC, the vessel was detained for:

Navigational Violations: Allegations that the ship attempted to pass through the Strait without necessary permits.
Security Risks: Claims that the ship’s navigation systems had been tampered with, which Iran classifies as a "red line" for maritime safety in the region.

Broader Regional Tensions

The seizure occurred alongside the detention of a second vessel, the MSC Francesca, and reports of an attack on a third ship, the Euphoria. These actions come amid a high-stakes standoff involving a U.S. naval blockade and a fragile, recently extended ceasefire in the region.