Displaying items by tag: Iran

Iran called on Greece to cooperate to resolve the crisis, but without the involvement of the United States, after the seizure of the two Greek tankers by Iranian forces in the Gulf, as reported by Reuter’s agency.

"Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias to condemn in the strongest terms the May 27 seizure of two Greek-flagged vessels by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Iran’s continued harassment of vessels and interference with navigational rights and freedoms are a threat to maritime security and the global economy. The Secretary and Foreign Minister agreed that Iran must immediately release the seized vessels, their cargoes, and their crews," according to State Department spokesperson Ned Price.

"The United States stands with Greece, our key NATO Ally and partner in the face of this unjustified seizure," it added.

The Ministry of Shipping made a "strong recommendation" to Greek ship-owning companies to avoid waters under the jurisdiction of Iran, when they cross the Persian Gulf, in the Straits of Hormuz, and the Gulf of Oman.