Tensions in the Persian Gulf have escalated as six thousand civilian sailors remain caught in the region’s ongoing conflict, with recent incidents underscoring the risks faced by commercial shipping amid rising hostilities. Since the outbreak of war, maritime activity through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global trade artery for oil and goods—has sharply declined, with daily ship passages dropping from an average of 130 to just over a dozen.

Attacks along this key shipping lane have intensified, notably involving Iran’s assertion of control through strikes on vessels, prompting retaliatory responses from the United States. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) reported a recent attack near Oman where the Greek-owned cargo ship Minoan Pioneer was hit, resulting in a missing crew member. The broader conflict now extends beyond the Strait of Hormuz, affecting the Red Sea and ports in the region.

Since hostilities began, 64 incidents targeting ships have resulted in the deaths of 17 sailors, with Iranian forces responsible for most casualties. Meanwhile, U.S. naval actions have also led to fatalities, including three sailors after an incident in June. Additionally, the Yemeni Houthi militia has targeted vessels in the Red Sea, and explosions at an Egyptian port last week damaged two ships.

Among the affected vessels are two container ships from MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, one of the world’s largest shipping firms headquartered in Geneva. The Francesca and the Epaminondas, both seized by Iranian forces in April, remain detained in Iranian waters according to satellite data and maritime tracking organizations. The Francesca, flagged under Panama, entered the Persian Gulf on February 22; meanwhile, the Epaminondas operates under the Liberian flag and is leased by MSC.

Panama has been involved diplomatically to negotiate the release of the Francesca and its crew, with officials noting some progress but withholding further details due to ongoing talks. Croatia’s foreign ministry announced the release of two Croatian sailors previously held aboard the Francesca. The seafarers reportedly received adequate food and care, although communication access has been restricted in recent weeks. The Philippines confirmed the release of several Filipino crew members from the Epaminondas, who underwent medical and psychological evaluations following their ordeal.

Representatives of maritime workers have expressed deep concern over the welfare of crews stranded at sea amid deteriorating conditions. Mohamed Arrachedi, coordinator for the International Transport Workers’ Federation in the Arab region, described the seafarers’ mental and physical strain, with some reporting limited food supplies and disrupted sleep due to safety fears. He characterized the sailors as feeling “abandoned” and “unprotected.”

The ability of crew members to request repatriation is often constrained by the need for host country cooperation, which is not always granted. Helen Sampson, a maritime labor expert, noted that seafarers on short-term contracts may hesitate to refuse risky assignments out of career concerns, fearing blacklisting by employers.

The Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ navy cited the seizure of vessels traveling without necessary permits and directed the ships toward Iranian shores, according to statements shared by semi-official Iranian media. Both the Francesca and Epaminondas continue to be held under these contested circumstances, with negotiations for their release complicated by the broader geopolitical conflict.

The International Maritime Organization confirmed discussions are ongoing but acknowledged the complexity of resolving these maritime detentions amidst escalating regional tensions. Meanwhile, shipping companies and maritime authorities urge caution, emphasizing that while trade remains vital, the safety of civilian mariners must remain paramount.