BSC's MV Banglar Joyjatra stranded in UAE port due to Middle East tensions 

Bangladesh Shipping Corporation's (BSC) vessel MV Banglar Joyjatra has remained stranded at a United Arab Emirates port after unloading operations were temporarily suspended amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, officials said.

The vessel is currently berthed at Port Jebel Ali in the UAE, located between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, according to BSC Managing Director Commodore Mahmudul Malek.

He said, "Cargo unloading remained suspended. Once cargo unloading is done, the ship will soon leave the port."

He also said that all other ships are now in safe zones.

The ship arrived at the port on 27 February carrying 38,800 tonnes of steel coil. Its last port of call was Mesaieed, Qatar.

Port authorities have temporarily halted unloading activities, leaving the Bangladesh-flagged vessel unable to proceed with cargo discharge.

A total of 31 crew members are on board the ship. BSC officials said they are maintaining regular communication with the vessel to monitor the situation and ensure crew safety.

"The master of the ship has been advised to remain extra vigilant and keep the morale of the crew high," Commodore Malek said in a communication.

Shipping operations across parts of the Middle East have faced disruptions since Saturday morning due to escalating regional tensions after the USA and Israel jointly launched an attack on Iran. 

Iran in response launched missile attacks at several Middle Eastern Countries including UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain raising concerns over cargo movement and maritime security.

BSC officials said further decisions regarding the vessel's schedule will depend on the evolving situation at the port and regional security developments.