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Iranian Intelligence Vessel Resupplies Near Djibouti

 

The Iranian intelligence vessel MV BEHSHAD was spotted on satellite imagery (Sentinel 2) on March 7, 2024, operating east of Djibouti.

  • BEHSHAD appears to be refueling from the sanctioned Iranian container ship KASHAN (IMO: 9270696).
  • KASHAN is previously linked to Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) and has been sanctioned by the US Treasury.
  • IRISL is accused of providing logistical support to Iran's Ministry of Defense.
  • In March 2023, reports indicated a significant increase in Iranian container ship activity on a route linking Mombasa, Zanzibar, and Dar es Salaam in Southeast Africa.
  • The sanctioned container ship KASHAN was previously spotted departing Mombasa for Tanzania on this route.

The resupply of BEHSHAD by KASHAN suggests continued Iranian activity in the region despite sanctions.The increased container ship traffic on the African route raises concerns about potential Iranian military cargo movement.

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