On February 18, 2025, the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard successfully rescued seven crew members from the Iranian cargo ship M/V Shayesteh, which sank in the Arabian Gulf. The vessel, flying a Qatari flag, developed a severe list and issued a mayday call before going under. The swift response from U.S. forces ensured the safety of the crew, comprising five Iranians and two Indians.
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The U.S. Navy and Coast Guard rescued seven mariners from the sinking M/V Shayesteh.
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The ship was flying a Qatari flag and had developed a significant list.
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The rescue operation involved the USS Devastator and USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr.
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All rescued crew members were reported safe and received medical care.
Incident Overview
The M/V Shayesteh, a cargo ship owned by an Iranian company, was operating in the Arabian Gulf when it began to list dangerously. The crew issued a distress signal, prompting a rapid response from U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). The USS Devastator, a mine countermeasure ship, and the USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr., a Coast Guard cutter, were dispatched to the scene.
Upon arrival, the U.S. forces found that the crew had already abandoned the vessel. The seven mariners were quickly brought aboard the USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr., where they received immediate medical attention. Fortunately, all crew members were reported safe, with no injuries sustained during the incident.
Maritime Security Context
This incident highlights the ongoing commitment of U.S. forces to ensure maritime safety in the region. The Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA), which operates from Bahrain, plays a crucial role in maritime security, interdiction, and cooperation missions across the Middle East. The U.S. Navy and Coast Guard regularly conduct operations to deter illicit activities and provide assistance to vessels in distress.
The Role of International Cooperation in Maritime Safety
The successful rescue of the crew from the M/V Shayesteh underscores the importance of international maritime cooperation and the readiness of U.S. forces to respond to emergencies at sea. As tensions in the region continue, such operations are vital for ensuring the safety of all mariners navigating these waters.
Sources
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U.S. Navy Saves 7 Crew Members From Sinking Iranian Vessel In Arabian Gulf, Marine Insight.
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U.S. Navy, Coast Guard Rescue Mariners in Persian Gulf – USNI News, USNI News.
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USCG and Navy Rescue Crew from Iranian Ship Sinking in Persian Gulf, The Maritime Executive.
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US Coast Guard, Navy save crew of cargo ship before it sinks in Persian Gulf, Stars and Stripes.
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U.S. forces rescue crew from sinking cargo vessel – SAFETY4SEA, safety4sea.
