Several Azerbaijani ships remain detained in Eritrea, with an investigation ongoing into the circumstances surrounding their seizure. The vessels were detained last week while docked at a port in the Red Sea nation, sparking diplomatic concerns between Azerbaijan and Eritrea.
The exact reasons for the detention are still unclear, though reports suggest that the ships may have been involved in a dispute over maritime regulations or potential violations of Eritrean law. Azerbaijani authorities have requested more information from the Eritrean government and are working to resolve the situation.
In a statement, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern over the prolonged detention of its ships and called for the immediate release of the vessels and their crews. The ministry also requested that Eritrea clarify the nature of the investigation and ensure that international maritime laws are respected.
Eritrean authorities have not provided specific details on the reasons for the ships’ detention but indicated that the investigation is necessary to determine whether any legal violations occurred. The ships, which are involved in trade and commercial operations, have been held at a port in the coastal city of Massawa, with crew members reportedly facing limited access to communication. The situation has raised concerns about the impact on trade routes in the region, as Azerbaijan is a significant player in the Caspian Sea trade network. Azerbaijan’s diplomatic efforts are focused on securing the safe return of the ships while maintaining good relations with Eritrea, which has historically had a more reserved stance on international relations.
The ongoing investigation and detainment have raised questions about the enforcement of maritime laws and the treatment of foreign vessels in Eritrean waters. Analysts suggest that the resolution of the case could have broader implications for the region’s shipping and diplomatic relations. As of now, there has been no official statement on when the investigation will conclude, and discussions between the two countries are expected to continue in the coming weeks.
