Tensions rise in Strait of Hormuz as merchant vessels face fire and alleged seizure
On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, multiple container ships reported incidents in the Strait of Hormuz after being approached by Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) vessels. The Greek-owned, Liberian-flagged vessel Epaminondas was fired upon with bullets and rockets, causing damage to its bridge but leaving its 21 crew members safe. While Iranian state media claimed that the Epaminondas and the MSC Francesca were seized and redirected to Iranian waters for allegedly violating navigation rules, the Greek Ministry of Shipping has denied these reports regarding the Epaminondas. Additionally, reports indicate that a third vessel, the Euphoria, may have run aground following an incident. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that Iranian gunboats approached vessels without radio warning before opening fire. Iran maintains that the ships were acting against safety regulations, while other sources note the vessels had received prior passage clearance.