Greek Seafarers Strike Over Stranded Crews Amid Iran Conflict

On March 5, 2026, Greek seafarers initiated a 24-hour nationwide strike, halting local ferry services and maritime operations across the country. This industrial action, organized by the Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation (PNO), aimed to protest the precarious situation of crews stranded in the Gulf due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, particularly following recent military actions involving Iran. The union demanded that the Gulf region be declared a war risk zone to facilitate the safe repatriation of seafarers.

Greek Seafarers Union Calls Nationwide Strike Over Stranded Crew in Middle East

The ongoing conflict has significantly impacted maritime operations in the Gulf, a critical area for global trade, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for approximately 20% of the world's oil and gas supply. Although the Strait remains open, Iranian officials have threatened to target any vessels attempting to navigate through it. Currently, around 325 vessels linked to Greek interests are in the region, with at least ten Greek-flagged ships carrying 85 Greek seafarers reported to be present in the Gulf.

Ten Greek-flagged ships with 85 Greek seafarers in Persian GulfGreece Warns Of “Alarming” Strait Of Hormuz Crisis As Over 325 Greek-Linked Ships Operate In High-Risk ZoneThe Straits TimesAl MonitorGreece Seafarers’ 24-Hour Strike March 5, 2026: Ferries Halted Over Middle East Risks to Crews in Persian Gulf & HormuzReutersStrike over ‘stuck’ Greek seamen in war-torn Middle East: PNO saysThe Straits TimesTens of thousands of seafarers, cruise passengers stranded in Gulf

The PNO has called for immediate measures to ensure the safety of seafarers, including their evacuation from high-risk areas. Union leaders, including Angelos Galanopoulos and Apostolis Kypraios, emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing fears for the safety of their colleagues and the anxiety faced by their families. The Greek Merchant Marine Minister, Vasilis Kikilias, acknowledged the alarming conditions, stating that the government is in constant communication with the crews and is prioritizing their safety. Kikilias also noted that the ministry has advised against sending any vessels to the region until the situation stabilizes.

Greece Warns Of “Alarming” Strait Of Hormuz Crisis As Over 325 Greek-Linked Ships Operate In High-Risk Zone

The strike highlights Greece's significant role in global shipping and the vulnerabilities faced by its seafarers amid geopolitical tensions. The PNO's actions reflect broader industry concerns, including rising operational costs and the potential for increased insurance premiums due to the conflict. The strike is expected to disrupt ferry services to popular destinations, affecting both local travel and logistics for businesses reliant on maritime transport.

Greece Seafarers’ 24-Hour Strike March 5, 2026: Ferries Halted Over Middle East Risks to Crews in Persian Gulf & Hormuz

While the strike has garnered support from seafarers and their families, it has also faced criticism from some quarters regarding the potential economic impact on the shipping industry. The PNO has expressed strong opposition to any government plans to send vessels to the conflict zone, labeling such actions as provocative and dangerous.

Greece Seafarers’ 24-Hour Strike March 5, 2026: Ferries Halted Over Middle East Risks to Crews in Persian Gulf & Hormuz

Reports regarding the exact number of seafarers stranded in the Gulf vary, with estimates ranging from 20,000 seafarers globally, as cited by the International Maritime Organization, to specific figures regarding Greek nationals. Additionally, the situation remains fluid, with ongoing military actions and threats complicating evacuation efforts.

The Straits Times

• “We demand that all of our colleagues, currently in the dangerous Gulf area, the Gulf of Oman and the Red Sea, are evacuated and safely repatriated,” — Angelos Galanopoulos, Head of Greece's Lower Engine Crews' Union

The Straits Times

• “The government and shipownwers are responsible for the people trapped in war areas,” — Apostolis Kypraios, Head of the Marine Engineers' Union PEMEN

The Straits Times

• “This is alarming and worrying, and I wish that global shipping was left out of war conflicts,” — Vassilis Kikilias, Greek Merchant Marine Minister

Reuters

The strike and the surrounding circumstances underscore the precarious position of seafarers in conflict zones and the urgent need for protective measures to ensure their safety and well-being.

Greek Seafarers Union Calls Nationwide Strike Over Stranded Crew in Middle East