Nicosia - Cypriot authorities began on Saturday an investigation into an Iranian vessel suspected of carrying illicit weapons supplies, Cypriot media have reported.

The vessel was escorted into Limassol harbour by an American warship at the beginning of the week, after being intercepted in the eastern Mediterranean.

Authorities suspect that the vessel was carrying munitions destined for Syria, under a Cypriot flag, from where they were to be delivered to militant organizations in Lebanon or the Palestinian territories.

Cypriot Radio reported on Saturday that the vessel was currently lying at anchor around two kilometres from Limassol harbour.

Under the terms of a UN resolution, Iran is prohibited from exporting arms. (dpa)