23/03/2007

British personnel detained by Iranian forces

The British government is demanding the safe return of 15 service personnel seized at gunpoint by Iranian forces.

It is understood that the British contingent were taking part in a routine operation in the Shatt Al Arab waterway and according to British sources were in international waters when they were detained by an Iranian naval force.

The men from HMS Cornwall, a Type 22 frigate on patrol in the area, had just finished an inspection of a local boat when the Iranians swooped.

HMS Cornwall's captain, Commodore Nick Lambert, said his immediate concern was for the welfare of his men.

The Ministry of Defence said that the matter was being pursued at the highest level with the Iranian authorities.

The Iranian Ambassador has been summoned to the Foreign Office.

(SP/JM)

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