In a recent development, the Iranian Embassy in Manila has pledged to provide assistance to the Philippines in its efforts to secure the release of 18 Filipino seafarers who were onboard an oil tanker seized by Iran in the Gulf of Oman. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed this promising news on Saturday.
According to DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Eduardo Jose de Vega, the department is in contact with the Iranian government, and the Iranian ambassador has assured them of their assistance. This confirmation from the Iranian ambassador validates the fact that the ship has indeed been captured. However, the condition of the Filipino seafarers is yet to be ascertained, as the DFA is still awaiting an official report from its embassy in Iran.
De Vega emphasized that, so far, there is no indication that the Filipino seafarers are being harmed or mistreated. The Iranian ambassador has given assurances that they are working on securing their release as soon as possible. This news brings some relief to the families of the seafarers who are anxiously waiting for their loved ones to return home safely.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is also actively involved in this situation. They are in touch with the families of the 18 seafarers and are providing necessary assistance. DMW Undersecretary Patricia Yvonne Caunan stated that the update on the seafarers’ condition is encouraging, and they are currently in good health.
As the situation unfolds, the DMW will continue to closely monitor the well-being of the seafarers. The department understands the importance of keeping the families informed and providing them with the support they need during this difficult time.
The oil tanker in question, the ST Nikolas, was flying the flag of the Marshall Islands when it was seized by Iran. The ship was en route from the Iraqi port of Basra to Turkey at the time of the incident. It is worth noting that this vessel, previously named Suez Rajan, had garnered attention back in 2023 when the United States confiscated over 980,000 barrels of Iranian crude oil it was carrying as part of a sanction enforcement operation.
Local reports, citing the Iranian Navy, state that the seizure of the oil tanker was a retaliatory measure against the United States for the previous confiscation. Iran-based Fars News Agency quoted a statement from the Navy, saying, “The tanker, renamed ST Nicholas, was seized on Thursday, with a judicial order and in retaliation for the theft of Iran’s oil by the US.”
The international community is closely monitoring the developments in this situation, hoping for a swift resolution that ensures the safe return of the Filipino seafarers. The assistance promised by the Iranian Embassy in Manila is a positive step forward, and the efforts of the DFA and DMW in coordinating with the relevant authorities and supporting the families are commendable.
As we await further updates, it is crucial to remember the importance of diplomatic efforts and cooperation in resolving such matters. The well-being and safety of seafarers, who play a vital role in global trade and commerce, should always be a top priority for all nations involved.
Source: The Manila Times
