Kerala-based Ann Tessa Joseph, one of the Indian crew members of a cargo ship, seized by Iran, returned to India on Thursday. Her return has been seen as a significant success in India’s effort to bring back the Indian crew members onboard MSC Aries which was seized amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.
While informing Ann Tessa Joseph’s return, the Ministry of External Affairs also said that is in touch with Iranian authorities to ensure the return of the remaining sixteen Indian crew members.
“With the concerted efforts of the Indian Mission in Tehran and the Iranian Government, Indian deck cadet Ms Ann Tessa Joseph from Thrissur, Kerala, who was among the Indian crew members of container vessel MSC Aries, has landed safely at the Cochin International Airport today afternoon. At the airport, Ms Joseph was received by the Regional Passport Officer, Cochin,” the MEA statement read.
The Indian deck cadet landed at the Cochin International Airport today afternoon and was received by the Regional Passport Officer of Cochin.
Ongoing talks between India and Iran
Soon after the container was seized by Iran, the External Affairs Ministry was in constant touch with the Iranian Foreign Ministry for the safe return of the Indian crew members. Recently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, bringing up the release of the 17 Indian crew members.
The two leaders, earlier, discussed the prevailing situation in West Asia, stressing the importance of avoiding escalation.
“Spoke to Iranian FM @Amirabdolahian this evening. Took up the release of 17 Indian crew members of MSC Aries. Discussed the current situation in the region. Stressed the importance of avoiding escalation, exercising restraint and returning to diplomacy. Agreed to remain in touch,” Jaishankar posted from his official X handle.
The MEA also informed that the Indian mission is in constant communication with the remaining 16 Indian crew members of the container vessel. The vessel was taken into control by the Iranian government on April 13. The MEA also assured that the crew members were in good health and touch with their family members.
“Indian Mission in Tehran remains seized of the matter and is in touch with the remaining 16 Indian crew members of the container vessel. The crew members are in good health and contact with their family members in India,” the MEA added.
“The Indian Mission is also in touch with the Iranian authorities to ensure the well-being of the remaining crew members of MSC Aries. Earlier, External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar had spoken to his Iranian counterpart Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian on the matter,” it stated further.
