Cyprus’ Deputy Ministry of Shipping is investigating an incident involving the M/V GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-registered cargo vessel that was fired upon while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis confirmed that the Ministry is in direct communication with the ship’s management and is managing the situation through the appropriate channels while keeping a close watch on developments.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), a maritime security organization under the UK Ministry of Defence, reported that the vessel was targeted by Iranian forces approximately nine nautical miles east of the Musandam Peninsula. Fortunately, the crew members have been safely evacuated to a neighboring country, although one crew member remains unaccounted for.
Letymbiotis assured that no Cypriot nationals were aboard the vessel at the time of the incident. He also highlighted the increased difficulty for vessels of all nationalities navigating through the Strait of Hormuz, particularly in light of recent military activities in the area. The situation underscores the heightened tensions and risks associated with maritime operations in this strategically significant waterway.
