Iran Navy saves cargo ship attacked by pirates

IRNA - Commander of the Iranian Navy said on Monday that Iranian Navy rescued an Iranian cargo ship which had come under attack by pirates in the Strait of Babolmandab.
Rear-Admiral Habibollah Sayyari said that the Iranian freighter came under attack in the strait after several armed people on board of 15 gunboats.

The commander stated that Iran’s 30th naval flotilla comprising Alvand destroyer and Bushehr logistic vessel rushed to assist the cargo ship upon its distress call.

The pirates fled when the Iranian Navy warships approached the scene.

Iran’s Navy has been increasing its presence in international waters to protect naval routes and provide security for merchant ships and tankers.

In line with international efforts to combat piracy, the Iranian Navy has also been conducting anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden since November 2008 to safeguard the vessels involved in maritime trade, especially the ships and oil tankers owned or leased by Iran.