Caracas, May 23 (RHC)-- The Iranian oil tanker Fortune, loaded with fuel, arrived this Saturday in Venezuelan waters where it is being escorted by ships, helicopters and planes of the Bolivarian Armed Forces (FANB) of the South American country.

The first ship arrives after refueling in the Iranian port of Bandar Abas.  The journey began on May 16th, taking a week to sail the Atlantic Ocean and arrive in the Caribbean sea.  It is expected that in the next few days another four vessels with gasoline will arrive in Venezuelan waters. 

Venezuela's decision to escort the ship was taken in view of the threats of the United States to attack the tankers coming from Iran.  "We have already contacted the Iranian Defense Minister, and when all those ships enter our exclusive economic zone, they will be escorted by ships, vessels and planes of the Bolivarian National Armed Force, to welcome them and tell the Iranian people: Thank you for so much solidarity," said Venezuela's Defense Minister, Vladimir Padrino López.