Ships halted across Greece as seafarers launch 24-hour strike over middle east crisis
Ships remained docked at ports across Greece on Thursday (today) as seafarers began a nationwide 24-hour strike over security concerns linked to the conflict in the Middle East.
The strike, called by the Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation, started at 00:01 and will continue until midnight, affecting all categories of vessels nationwide.
The federation described the situation in the region as “extremely serious and dangerous,” noting that hundreds of Greek and foreign seafarers remain stranded in nearby waters.
Union leaders also criticized reports that a shipping company, allegedly in coordination with the government, was preparing to send a vessel to an area where fighting is ongoing. The federation said it made clear that no ship would depart from Greece for the region under the current conditions.
Among the union’s main demands are the immediate evacuation of seafarers in the area, the designation of the wider zone as off-limits for shipping, and support for maritime cadets who are unable to return to continue their studies.
Maritime unions are also planning a protest Thursday afternoon at the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy and the offices of the Union of Greek Shipowners.
The strike comes amid heightened tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, where unions warn that navigation has become increasingly dangerous due to the escalating regional conflict.
