Strait of Hormuz crisis deepens, Greek minister warns

Greek Minister of Shipping Vassilis Kikilias has called for the protection of global shipping and seafarers in light of the ‘alarming’ situation following the escalation of the conflict with Iran. Dozens of vessels are stranded in the Strait of Hormuz and the surrounding waters.

Traffic through the strategic passage has been halted for four days. The strait accounts for around 20 per cent of global oil and gas supplies.

According to media reports, an official of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard said that Iran would fire on any vessel attempting to pass through the strait. Greece, one of the world’s leading maritime nations, has at least ten ships flying the Greek flag in the area and a further five outside the strait. More than 325 vessels under Greek management are operating across the wider region.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has advised ships to avoid the area and has placed the safety of seafarers at the forefront. Kikilias said the authorities were in constant contact with the crews and that they were safe for the time being, but the situation remained critical.

Athens has also drawn up plans to repatriate thousands of its citizens, although their return is complicated by the closure of regional airspace.

(reuters, max)