Concerns are rising for 85 Greek sailors currently on ten vessels operating in the Persian Gulf, amid escalating regional tensions and a series of attacks on commercial ships and energy facilities. An additional four ships remain outside the Strait of Hormuz, awaiting instructions.
The crews are closely monitoring developments, with worries about how long they may need to remain in the area, as well as the sufficiency of fuel and supplies. In the broader maritime zone, roughly 325 Greek-owned ships operate under foreign flags.
Reports indicate that missile and drone attacks have already targeted commercial vessels, ports, and offshore installations, resulting in injuries to sailors and at least one fatality.
Greek sailors are also present on two Cypriot cruise ships docked in Doha and Dubai, as well as on private yachts in Qatar. A witness described the terrifying conditions:
“We are trapped on the ship, seeing missiles and hearing explosions. Debris falls near us. We are scared and shaken, wondering when we will return home safely.”
The Persian Gulf is a critical artery for the global economy, carrying around 20% of the world’s oil. Any disruption in the region has far-reaching consequences. Greek sailors, often called the “unsung heroes” of global trade, are at the heart of this delicate balance.
