Egypt Steps Up Efforts to Free Eight Sailors Held off Somalia

GOOBJOOG NEWS|CAIRO: Egypt has intensified diplomatic efforts to secure the release of eight Egyptian sailors being held aboard an oil tanker near the Somali coast.

Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had strengthened coordination with the governments of Somalia and Yemen in an effort to secure the sailors’ prompt and safe release.

The Egyptian government said it was closely monitoring the sailors’ health and living conditions. It is also working to ensure that they receive essential supplies and medical care while negotiations for their release continue.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty directed the relevant authorities to use every available diplomatic channel to resolve the situation. He also urged the company that owns the tanker to fulfil its responsibility for the safety of its crew.

The incident began on May 11, 2026, when armed individuals seized the oil tanker while it was in Somali waters.

No official date has been announced for the sailors’ expected release. However, the Egyptian government said it would continue its diplomatic efforts and negotiations until a solution ensuring the safety of its citizens is reached.