Iran says six crew members from U.S.-seized vessel Touska freed

Iran said six crew members of the Iranian-flagged container ship Touska, previously seized by U.S. forces, had been freed, Tasnim news agency reported.

According to Iranian media, the released sailors have returned to Iran. Another 22 crew members remain on board the vessel, and efforts to secure their release are continuing.

The Iranian-flagged Touska was seized by U.S. forces in April. Iran’s Foreign Ministry described the seizure as an act of maritime piracy and a violation of the ceasefire regime.

Reuters earlier reported that U.S. forces had boarded the vessel, while sources said the cargo may have included dual-use items that Washington considered usable for military and industrial purposes.