More than 150 Greek sailors stranded because of war

In total, 160 Greek seafarers are in the Middle East, as Deputy Minister of Shipping Stefanos Gkikas informed during a parliamentary session. Across the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman, and the Persian Gulf, there are 34 Greek-flagged ships operating. In the Persian Gulf alone, 10 ships remain, with 90 Greek seafarers on board, while an additional 70 sailors are on two cruise ships in Doha and Dubai.

Regarding the repatriation of Greek seafarers, the deputy minister noted that no requests have been submitted so far, but that an automated mechanism is in place for such cases. At the same time, he highlighted the government’s concern over the increasing attacks on energy and oil facilities in the region, carried out either with missiles or drones, which also affect non-military targets such as hotels and other infrastructure, putting human lives at risk.

“I see composure and professionalism from our seafarers,” he said, “but the fact that the attacks continue and intensify over time creates multiple problems and is a major concern.”

The Greek government is closely monitoring the situation, ensuring that seafarers receive all the support they need in a region marked by heightened geopolitical risks.