Greece’s Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy is closely monitoring the escalating security situation in the Red Sea, as Houthi attacks on Greek-owned vessels have intensified over the past days. The ministry has placed its operational units on high alert and is prepared to intervene if needed, particularly to support Greek-flagged ships, their crews, and
Greek seafarers working on Greek-owned vessels under foreign flags. Assistance will be coordinated through the Directorate of Maritime Labour.
In response to the crisis, Greece has brought the issue before the International Maritime Organization (IMO), urging the international community to take coordinated action to restore lawful order in the region. The Greek delegation emphasized the need for full respect of international maritime law, citing both the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).
Greek authorities are also in continuous, 24/7 operational contact with the EU-led naval mission ASPIDES, which is tasked with ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels through the Red Sea corridor. At the same time, detailed guidance and safety recommendations have been issued to the Greek shipping industry, encouraging the implementation of heightened precautionary measures to mitigate risk.
Given the global nature of Greek shipping, the ministry is also extending its safety advisories to Greek-owned ships flying foreign flags, recognizing that Greek nationals are often employed on board such vessels. The primary objective, according to the ministry, is the protection of Greek maritime interests and the safeguarding of its seafarers—by any means necessary.
