The Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM) has formally protested to the US Ambassador regarding the deaths of three Indian seafarers in recent military actions. Expressing “deep pain and anguish,” SJM criticized the US response as insensitive and called for an impartial investigation, accountability, and compensation for the victims’ families.
On Wednesday, India summoned the US Chargé d’Affaires to express strong discontent over an attack on the Settebello off Oman’s coast, which left three Indian crew members missing. The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the assault, confirming 21 out of 24 crew members were rescued and urging for safe navigation in international waters.
Argentina’s maritime labor unions are striking against a proposed law that threatens overtime pay and union rights. The legislation, part of Prime Minister Javier Milei’s economic overhaul, aims to reclassify seafarers under commercial law, undermining protections. The Maritime Federation asserts, “The merchant marine cannot be excluded from the legal framework that protects Argentine workers.”
Trade unions in Greece are protesting the docking of the cruise ship Crown Iris, linked to the Israeli Defense Forces. The World Federation of Trade Unions demands that Greek authorities revoke approval for repairs at the Public Power Corporation pier, citing ongoing tensions in Gaza and urging support for local commercial vessels instead.
Farmers from Vangali village protested outside the Indian Maritime University, demanding jobs and compensation for land used to establish the university. They claim the university promised employment but hired outsiders instead. The farmers, frustrated with unaddressed concerns, have been cooking at the protest site for five days, vowing to escalate their actions.
The Israeli-owned cruise ship Crown Iris faced protests during its stop in Syros, Greece, where around 1,600 passengers, including many children, were aboard. Initially scheduled for a six-hour visit, the port call was canceled due to demonstrators blocking access, raising safety concerns and prompting the ship to divert to Cyprus.
Carnival Cruise Line crew members aboard the Carnival Sunshine have been detained in Norfolk, Virginia, amid accusations of child pornography, as reported by the Pilipino Workers Center. Advocacy director Aquilina Soriano Versoza criticized the detentions, calling them unjustified deportations of migrants who have valid work visas and have not been charged with crimes.
On Tuesday, Greta Thunberg and the Green Youth Movement occupied Maersk Tankers’ offices in Copenhagen, protesting the company’s fossil fuel transport. Activists criticized perceived “greenwashing” and called for an end to weapon shipments to Israel, reflecting broader anti-war sentiments. Freya Skriver urged Maersk to halt oil and gas transport.
Since Thursday evening, pilots and maritime workers in Flemish ports have been protesting government pension plans. They fear cuts of up to 45% in pensions for young seafarers and pilots. While the pilots have not gone on strike, delays in ship departures have already been seen. Efforts are being made to minimize waiting times for ships.
