Greece's Deputy Maritime Affairs Minister provided an update on the status of Greek seafarers stranded in the Persian Gulf, emphasizing ongoing monitoring and readiness for action.
In a parliamentary session, Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Stefanos Gkikas informed that there are currently 34 Greek-flagged vessels operating in strategic waters such as the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. This update was in response to a query from the Communist Party of Greece MP Nikos Ampiatelos regarding the government's measures to protect and repatriate Greek seafarers stranded in the region. The Deputy Minister highlighted that Greek authorities are closely tracking the situation and are prepared to act swiftly if necessary.
Gkikas disclosed that ten Greek-flagged vessels are currently in the Persian Gulf, employing about 90 Greek seafarers, while an additional 70 Greek crew members are aboard two cruise ships in Doha and Dubai. Notably, he pointed out the larger context by noting that over 1,000 vessels from various nationalities are stranded in the Persian Gulf, indicating significant maritime disruption in the area. This raises concerns about the safety and operational status of Greek vessels and their crews amid this turmoil.
The situation requires vigilant oversight by the Greek government, reflecting both national interests in protecting its citizens abroad and the strategic significance of maritime routes in the Persian Gulf. The implications of the increased presence of Greek maritime interests in a region with escalating tensions necessitate a proactive response to ensure the safety and welfare of seafarers, with the potential for diplomatic engagement if the situation deteriorates further.
