The Bangladesh Shipping Corporation’s (BSC) vessel, MV Banglar Joyjatra, has remained stranded at the Port of Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates after cargo unloading was temporarily suspended amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Commodore Mahmudul Malek, Managing Director of BSC, confirmed that the ship, carrying 38,800 tonnes of steel coil from Mesaieed, Qatar, arrived at the port on 27 February.
“Cargo unloading has been suspended. Once the suspension is withdrawn, the ship will depart soon,” he said.
The vessel has 31 crew members on board. BSC officials are maintaining regular communication to monitor the situation and ensure the safety and morale of the crew.
“The master of the ship has been advised to stay vigilant and keep the crew focused,” Commodore Malek added.
Other BSC vessels are reported to be in safe zones.
The delay comes after the US and Israel launched joint attacks on Iran on Saturday, prompting Iran to respond with missile strikes targeting several countries, including the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.
The attacks have disrupted shipping operations across the region, raising concerns over cargo movement and maritime security.
BSC officials said further decisions regarding the vessel’s schedule will depend on the evolving security situation at Jebel Ali and regional developments.
BSC also owns six other vessels currently operating in ports in the US, Canada, Russia, Senegal, Liberia, and Pakistan.
The situation at Jebel Ali underscores the wider impact of the Middle East crisis on international shipping and the vulnerability of cargo movement in volatile regions.
