The recent seizure of an Israel-linked cargo ship by Iran has brought to light the plight of a Kerala woman, Antessa Joseph, who is among the 17 Indians on board. The vessel, MSC Aries, was intercepted by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the Gulf region, sparking concerns about the safety and well-being of the crew.
Antessa Joseph’s family expressed their distress through a video aired on TV channels, revealing that although she is part of the ship’s crew, her name was initially omitted from official communications, including a letter from the Kerala Chief Minister to the External Affairs Ministry. However, upon learning about her presence, the Chief Minister’s Office swiftly engaged with the Central government, and the Department of Non-Resident Keralites Affairs (NORKA) was tasked with taking necessary steps to ensure her safety.
In the video, Antessa Joseph’s father expressed his anguish over the lack of updates from state and Central authorities regarding his daughter’s status. He noted that while the company owning the ship confirmed her safety, the absence of official communication added to their distress.
Iran, meanwhile, has assured that Indian authorities will soon be allowed to meet the crew members, providing hope for the families awaiting news of their loved ones’ well-being.
The MSC, the shipping company behind MSC Aries, stated its cooperation with relevant authorities to ensure the welfare of all 25 crew members and the eventual return of the vessel. Among the crew, Sumesh, PV Dhanesh, and Syamnath from Kerala have been confirmed, highlighting the diverse nationalities affected by the incident.
The situation underscores the complexities and challenges faced by crew members working on international shipping routes, especially in regions marked by geopolitical tensions.
Sources By Agencies
