LONDON: Maritime welfare organisations report a surge in distress calls from seafarers stranded in the Gulf region amid ongoing conflict-related disruptions.
According to seafarer support groups, hundreds of crew members aboard commercial vessels are seeking urgent assistance, including repatriation, medical support and basic supplies. Many have raised concerns about shortages of food, drinking water and essential provisions on board.
Reports indicate that more than 1,000 messages have been received from crews operating near the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters since the escalation of regional tensions, which has disrupted normal shipping operations.
Some seafarers have also shared footage of nearby strikes and requested guidance on their rights while operating in conflict-affected waters. Maritime welfare officials describe the situation as highly distressing, with increasing levels of panic among crews.
Aid organisations say they are working to coordinate support and respond to urgent requests, as shipping activity in the region continues under challenging and uncertain conditions.
