Georgian sailors safe after drone attack near Iraqi waters

The Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia has confirmed that Georgian crew members are safe following a suspected drone attack on a tanker operating near Iraqi waters on Thursday.

The Agency is currently working with international partners and the shipowner to coordinate the sailors' return home.

According to the MTA, the incident occurred in the vicinity of Iraq's territorial waters. While the vessel sustained an impact, information provided by the crewing company confirms that all Georgian citizens on board are unharmed.

“The shipowner and the insurance company are fully involved in the process, and the repatriation of the sailors is currently being organized”, the Agency stated.

The Maritime Transport Agency, in collaboration with other relevant Georgian state departments, remains in constant communication with the shipowning company. They have emphasised that all necessary measures will be taken to protect the interests and security of the Georgian seafarers.

The MTA highlighted that the International Maritime Organisation and other global bodies are continuously monitoring the security environment in the Middle East. As a vital artery for global trade - specifically for energy shipments - the region remains under high scrutiny.