On January 14, Caspian Marine Services (CMS) B.V. stated that the continued detention of three Azerbaijani ships in Eritrea since November 7, 2024, is attributed to the Eritrean state, with the documentation necessary for their release still incomplete.

The Azerbaijani-flagged vessels CMS Pahlavan, CMS Igid, and CMS-3, operated by CMS's Azerbaijani branch, were detained after entering Eritrean territorial waters during their voyage from the Suez Canal to Abu Dhabi due to deteriorating weather conditions. Although initial contact with Eritrean port authorities occurred, incomplete communication led to their entry being declared unauthorized. Eritrean authorities detained the ships, which carry 24 crew members, including 18 Azerbaijanis and six foreign nationals.

CMS assured that the crew is in good condition, has access to food, and can communicate with their families. The company noted that an ongoing investigation in Eritrea is expected to take time before concluding.