The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has issued an official clarification regarding the continued detention of the Russian-flagged crude oil tanker Dignity, stating that the vessel’s situation is the result of a civil court order and not an action initiated by the canal authority itself.

The tanker has been held at the Suez anchorage for nearly two months following a directive from the Ismailia Economic Court relating to an unpaid financial dispute between the ship’s owning company and Sphinx Shipping Agency. The SCA emphasized that it is not a party to the case and that reports attributing the vessel’s detention to canal authorities are inaccurate.

The Dignity is understood to be associated with sanctions imposed by the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom, particularly concerning oil price-cap restrictions. While these sanctions frame the vessel’s broader operating environment, the SCA reiterated that the current detainment is solely connected to the unresolved commercial claim.

Concerns have also been raised over the welfare of the crew. Reports indicate that the Russian seafarers onboard have not received wages for several months and are facing limited fuel and essential supplies, potentially compromising power and onboard safety. The situation has drawn attention from maritime observers and welfare organizations monitoring detained or abandoned crews worldwide.

The SCA urged media organizations and stakeholders to verify information through official channels, underscoring the need to avoid speculation that could “cause confusion or misinterpretation” of the matter.

The case continues to highlight the complex intersection of sanctions, maritime commerce, port jurisdiction, and crew welfare, particularly when disputes result in prolonged vessel detention at anchorage.