The ship, which had 25 crew members on board, was accused by Tehran of violating international maritime law.

Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, made the announcement during a phone call with his Portuguese counterpart, Paulo Rangel.

The ship's seizure took place hours before Iran carried out its first-ever direct attack on Israel, launching hundreds of drones and missiles.

Portugal's ambassador in Tehran was granted consular access to the crew members of a Portuguese-flagged oil tanker, the "FORJA DE SANGALHO," which was seized by Iranian authorities.

Portugal had previously demanded the ship's release.

India reported that one crew member had returned home, and the remaining Indian crew members were granted consular access and were said to be in good health.

The return of the crew members was reportedly delayed due to technicalities.

A ship was seized by Iran hours before they launched an attack on Israel with drones and missiles, which was intercepted by the Israeli military.

Both Israel and the US have labeled the seizure as "piracy." Tensions have been high in the region since the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza began nearly seven months ago.