Greece’s shipping minister has described the situation in the Strait of Hormuz as “alarming and worrying,” as dozens of vessels remain stranded amid the widening conflict involving Iran.
Speaking to Reuters on Tuesday, Greek Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Vassilis Kikilias called for global shipping to be protected from war zones, warning that the disruption threatens international commerce and the safety of seafarers.
Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz — a key maritime artery that accounts for about 20% of global oil and gas supply — has been closed for a fourth consecutive day. An Iranian Revolutionary Guards senior official said on Monday that Iran would fire on any ship attempting to pass through the strait, according to Iranian media reports.
“This is alarming and worrying, and I wish that global shipping was left out of war conflicts,” Kikilias said to Reuters. “Global shipping has to do with global commerce, which everybody needs. And sailors, of course, are not to blame.”
Greek Ships and Crews in the Gulf
Greece is a dominant force in global shipping, controlling one of the world’s largest merchant fleets. Kikilias said at least 10 Greek-flagged ships are currently in the Gulf, with another five positioned outside the area. Their crews include dozens of Greek seafarers. In total, more than 325 ships of Greek interests are operating in the wider region.
The Greek shipping ministry has advised vessels to avoid the area since Saturday, stressing that the safety of seafarers remains its top priority.
“We’re in communication with them day and night, 24/7. I’m happy they’re okay, but I’m worried, and we are worried, of course, because the area is in danger,” Kikilias said. “We cannot dismiss the possibility of bigger problems.”
Repatriation Efforts Complicated
In addition to concerns over maritime traffic, Greece said it has put in place a plan to repatriate thousands of its nationals stranded in the region. However, the effort faces significant obstacles as the airspace over the area remains closed.
