Last Monday, an MSC containership, the 4,900 TEU Sariska V, sustained damage to its hull after being hit by projectiles while it was 40 nautical miles south-east of the Iraqi port of Umm Qasr.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations agency has reported that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard has claimed responsibility for the attack.
“MSC is deeply concerned about these unprovoked attacks and the risk they create for its innocent seafarers and essential maritime trade in the region,” the group said in a statement.
Today, the President of Assoporti, Roberto Petri, expressed, on behalf of the Italian Port Association and all the Port Network Authorities, his deepest sympathy and solidarity with the CEO of MSC and the entire MSC Group following the very serious attack.
“I would like to express my total solidarity with the Aponte family and all the company’s maritime community following this latest incident, which has affected international shipping and jeopardised the safety of seafarers,” Mr. Petri said.
“MSC is a key player in the Italian and European logistics and port sector. The company plays a vital role in ensuring the continuity of supply chains, the competitiveness of our ports and the growth of our national economy. Attacks like this do not merely affect a single company, but jeopardise the safety of shipping, the freedom of trade and the stability of international trade.”
The President of Assoporti also stressed that the continuing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are causing growing concern for the entire global maritime and port sector, with potential repercussions on trade routes, logistics costs and the crew safety.
“At such a critical time, it is essential that the international community remains committed to guaranteeing the safety of shipping and the protection of its seafarers. Italian ports stand shoulder to shoulder with MSC and all the operators who keep global trade up and running every day, often working in increasingly complex and risky environments.”
Translation by Giles Foster