Stranded at Sea: Gulf Mariners in Iran-US-Israel Conflict

0:00This is Global News Today, powered by AI and presented by the Daily News Now. Sailors on oil tankers and cargo ships in the Gulf are stuck at sea or in ports due to the escalating conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel. Iran has threatened to fire on any vessels passing through the straight-of-form moons, a vital route for energy and good shipments. This is halted traffic, leaving crews watching drones, cruise missiles, and fighter jets overhead. In recent days, attacks have damaged at least seven ships, including one where a sailor died on March 1st when the engine room caught fire. Estimates put the number of stranded mariners at around 20,000 from countries like Pakistan, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and South Korea. Summer anchored near ports, others adrift, with risks high in both spots. Crew members describe daily scares, like jets clashing or missiles flying low, with no safe hiding spots on board. Families back home are frantic, often losing contact amid communication blackouts.

1:01One father pleaded for news of his son after a port strike. Navigation woes have worsened, with GPS interference forcing blinds sailing into places like Dubai. Food and water supplies are dwindling fast rations down to small meat portions and veggies, with desalination tricky without movement. Some ships have just weeks left. Captains and unions warn that insurance covers vessels and cargo, but not lives, urging companies to skip the straight. They say this war could reshape Gulf Trade long-term, leaving innocent seafarers paying the real price. Special thanks to our sponsor for supporting this episode. When you want calm, do not reach for your phone. Lay back and listen, solypillo.com