Greece Warns of "Alarming" Crisis in Strait of Hormuz

Greece’s shipping minister warned that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz is “alarming” as rising Middle East tensions disrupt global shipping through one of the world’s most important maritime routes.

Shipping Minister Vassilis Kikilias said the safety of seafarers and global trade is at risk as conflict in the region has slowed or halted traffic through the strategic waterway. The Strait of Hormuz links the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and is a key route for global energy shipments, carrying about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies.

“This is alarming and worrying, and I wish that global shipping was left out of war conflicts,” Kikilias said, stressing that sailors should not be caught in geopolitical disputes.

• Greece warns Strait of Hormuz tensions threaten global shipping
• Shipping disruption raises concerns for oil and gas supply routes
• Greek vessels in Gulf face risk as Middle East conflict escalates

Greek authorities said at least 10 Greek-flagged vessels are currently operating in the Gulf, with another five nearby. Many have Greek crew members on board. Officials estimate that more than 300 ships connected to Greek shipping companies are active in the wider region, highlighting the potential scale of the disruption.

Iranian media reported that officials from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that vessels attempting to pass through the strait could face attack. The warning has increased concern among shipping companies and prompted some vessels to remain anchored outside the area or delay their routes.

The Greek government has advised ships to avoid sailing through the Strait of Hormuz shipping route since the weekend. Authorities said the shipping ministry is in contact with companies and crews to track the situation and ensure the safety of sailors.

The disruption has raised concerns across global energy markets and the shipping industry. Any prolonged restrictions in the strait could affect oil supply routes and liquefied natural gas shipments, potentially pushing up oil prices and affecting supply chains.

Greek officials are also monitoring the safety of their citizens in the region. Plans are being considered to assist those who may need to leave the area, though travel options remain limited because of security risks and airspace restrictions linked to the ongoing conflict.

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Kikilias urged the international community to protect maritime navigation and ensure that commercial vessels can operate safely despite tensions in the region. He warned that continued disruption in the strait could have serious consequences for global trade and energy supply.