BSC Vessel Returns to Sharjah after Iran Denies Permission to cross the Strait of Hormuz

The Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC) vessel Banglar Joyyatra has been forced to return to Sharjah, UAE after Iranian authorities denied it permission to cross the Strait of Hormuz. Despite a ceasefire in the Middle East the ship remains caught in the fallout of the Iran–USA conflict.

BSC Managing Director Commodore Mahmudul Malek confirmed today that the vessel, carrying 37,000 tonnes of phosphate fertilizer was en route from Ras Al Khair, Saudi Arabia, to Cape Town, South Africa. After 40 hours of sailing the ship reached the Strait last Wednesday but was instructed by Tehran to turn back.

"The ship has been stranded in the region for 40 days. While we followed all Iranian procedures, clearance was rejected," Malek stated, adding that diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the deadlock.

The vessel’s 31 sailors are reported safe with sufficient supplies. To maintain morale during the crisis, BSC has increased the daily food allowance from $7 to $12 per person and is providing a war allowance equivalent to their basic pay. Fresh water is being rationed to six tonnes per day, supported by the ship’s desalination unit.

The Banglar Joyyatra has been navigating the Persian Gulf since February 2. Plans to load cargo in Kuwait were previously cancelled due to escalating tensions between Israel, the US, and Iran leading BSC to prioritize the vessel's safety.