Egyptian officials report that 28 people have been saved from a tourist yacht that sank off the Red Sea coast, but 17 others are still missing
Egyptian authorities rescued 28 people from a tourist boat that sank near the Red Sea coast. They are still searching for 17 others who were on the boat.
Yacht Sinks
A yacht carrying 45 people, including 31 tourists from different countries and 14 crew members, sank near Marsa Alam, Egypt. This was reported by Egypt’s state-owned media, Al Ahram, citing a statement from Red Sea governor Amr Hanafi.
The yacht, Sea Story, was on a multi-day diving trip and was supposed to return to Hurghada Marina on Friday. However, it sank before completing its journey.
Authorities have not said what caused the sinking or given details about the nationalities of the tourists.
Governor Hanafi said military ships and aircraft are working with the Marine Rescue Center and local authorities to speed up search and rescue efforts. Some survivors have been flown to hospitals for medical care, while others are being cared for at the site until they can be moved by a rescue ship, the Fateh.
The yacht sent out a distress signal at 5:30 am local time. Rescue teams, using helicopters and a naval unit, quickly located the incident site.
The sinking happened during bad weather, as Egypt was experiencing rough seas. The Egyptian Meteorological Authority had warned of strong winds and high waves, advising against maritime activities on Sunday and Monday. Waves in the Red Sea were predicted to be 3-4 meters high.
Red Sea Crisis
The Red Sea crisis is expected to continue until mid-2025, with its impact lasting much longer, according to a report by the Institute of Export & International Trade in August.
Since October 2023, Yemen’s Houthi group has been attacking commercial ships passing through the Suez Canal, following the start of the Israel-Palestine war. These attacks increased significantly in November, forcing ships to take longer routes around the Cape of Good Hope.
Experts say the Suez Canal is unlikely to reopen this year. They predict the crisis will last until early 2025, as the shipping industry adjusts to a new way of operating.
Published: 26th November 2024
Also Read:
Saudi non-oil exports up 22.8% in September, led by re-exports
Exploring Middle Eastern Street Food: Flavors You Can’t Miss
Egypt’s central bank holds rates steady amid rising inflation
