Attack on Thai Cargo Ship in the Strait of Hormuz: Crew Rescued, Three Missing

On March 11, 2023, the Thai-registered cargo ship Mayuree Naree was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime passage for global oil shipments. The vessel was struck by two projectiles while transiting from a port in the United Arab Emirates to India. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that the ships had ignored prior warnings. Following the incident, 20 crew members were rescued by the Royal Navy of Oman, while three crew members remain unaccounted for and are believed to be trapped in the damaged engine room.

20 Thai Sailors Return Home After Cargo Ship Attack In Strait Of Hormuz, 3 Crew Still MissingThe Straits TimesSouth China Morning Post20 Thai crew return after Strait of Hormuz ship attack, but 3 remain missing20 Thai crew rescued in Oman as search continues for three missing after cargo ship attack

The 20 rescued Thai sailors arrived at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok on March 16, 2023. They were escorted away by officials without making statements to the media. Precious Shipping Public Company Limited, the vessel's owner, confirmed that the company would provide welfare support, including medical examinations and mental health assessments, for the returning crew. The company emphasized that its highest priority is the ongoing efforts to locate the three missing crew members.

The Straits Times

The three crew members still aboard the Mayuree Naree have been identified as electrician Kiattisak Pawaphuchakae, engineer Panupong Muentaen, and mechanic Chawalit Chaiyawong. Their families have expressed concern, with Chawalit's father stating that his son had been working on the ship for five years and was in regular contact with his family until the attack. Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been in communication with Iran's Foreign Affairs Minister, Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, seeking assistance in the rescue operation for the missing crew.

20 Thai crew return after Strait of Hormuz ship attack, but 3 remain missing

Thailand's Foreign Ministry has called for diplomatic negotiations to ease tensions in the region and ensure the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, a senior official in the ministry, stated that they are actively seeking support from Iran to facilitate the rescue of the missing crew members. Precious Shipping has also committed to compensating the crew for lost wages and personal property.

20 Thai crew return after Strait of Hormuz ship attack, but 3 remain missing

Family members of the crew have voiced their frustrations regarding the lack of communication from the shipping company and the government. One family member, identified as Bass, expressed concern over the risks faced by seafarers, noting that many continue to work despite the dangers due to financial pressures. The families are demanding more transparency and timely updates regarding the situation of their loved ones.

20 Thai Sailors Return Home After Cargo Ship Attack In Strait Of Hormuz, 3 Crew Still Missing

The attack on the Mayuree Naree highlights the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly following recent military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran. As the search continues for the three missing crew members, the incident raises significant concerns about maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil transportation.

The Straits Times