New Delhi, March 25: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has halted a Pakistani vessel named Selene from crossing the Strait of Hormuz. The reason cited for this action was the vessel’s failure to meet required standards, specifically not obtaining the necessary clearance from relevant authorities. This incident comes at a critical time as Pakistan is poised to act as a mediator between Iran and the United States, suggesting that Iran may be signaling its disinterest in diplomatic negotiations at this moment.
AIS tracking data revealed that Selene, which departed from Sharjah Anchorage late on March 23, was en route to Pakistan but abruptly changed course near Hormuz, returning to the Gulf. The IRGC stated that the vessel lacked the required legal clearance.
According to IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting), IRGC Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri emphasized that the vessel did not comply with regulations, leading to its return. He made it clear that all vessels passing through this route must first obtain permission from Iranian officials. The Selene, flagged under Saint Kitts and Nevis, is a small feeder container ship operated by Dubai’s Exceed Oceanic Trading LLC.
This incident occurs as Pakistan is preparing to mediate between Iran, the U.S., and other parties. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has publicly stated that Islamabad is ready to work towards a comprehensive resolution of the conflict. U.S. President Donald Trump reinforced this offer by sharing Sharif’s statement on social media, although he did not clarify whether Washington would participate.
Despite these overtures, Iran has publicly declared that no negotiations are currently taking place and has reiterated its intention to continue its confrontational stance.
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