Azerbaijan has formally protested to Eritrea regarding the detention of three Azerbaijani-flagged vessels and their 18-member crews.
The vessels were seized on November 7, 2024, after entering Eritrean waters during adverse weather while en route to Abu Dhabi.
Ayxan Hajizada, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, confirmed the vessels were forced off course while navigating through the Suez Canal.
The detained vessels, CMS Pahlian, CMS İgid, and CMS-3, are operated by the Azerbaijani branch of Caspian Marine Services B.V.
Hajizada revealed that communication with Eritrean authorities occurred but failed to meet procedural requirements, prompting the detentions.
Azerbaijan responded by sending a diplomatic note through its embassies in Ethiopia and Russia, urging immediate resolution.
Efforts are underway to ensure the vessels and crews are released and provided with necessary legal and consular aid.
The situation underscores diplomatic complexities, as Eritrea has yet to clarify its position or timeline for resolving the matter.
No information has been disclosed on when Azerbaijan submitted its formal protest to Eritrean authorities.
The detained Azerbaijani citizens await relief as diplomatic channels strive to untangle the international maritime dispute.
