New Delhi, July 24: The Indian government is making consistent efforts to secure the early release of all 18 Indian crew members onboard 'Stena Impero', the British vessel which was seized by Iran's Revolutionary Guards last week. The seizure comes amid the escalating possibilities of a war between Iran and the US-led coalition.

V Muraleedharan, the Minister of State (MoS) in External Affairs Ministry, told reporters that the matter is being pursued at top-level with the Iranian authorities. The BJP leader said he is hopeful of securing the early release of the Indian sailors. Iran Says Fate of Seized Ship Depends On Crew ‘Cooperation’

"Efforts on to secure early release of Indian crew of ‘Stena Impero’. Foreign Secretary met Iranian Ambassador in Delhi yesterday," he said.

Muraleedharan claimed that New Delhi's embassy in Iran is also constantly monitoring the case and remains in touch with the designated officials.

"Indian Ambassador in Tehran also had a positive meeting with senior officials of Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs," he added.

On Saturday, Iran's Revolutionary Guards took into custody the British tanker which sailed into the Strait of Hormuz. Though violation of international maritime rules was cited as reason behind the seizure, experts claim that it was in retaliation to the confiscation of an Iranian vessel by the British authorities in Gibraltar.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 24, 2019 04:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).