U.S. Navy Saves 7 Crew Members From Sinking Iranian Vessel In Arabian Gulf

The U.S. Navy and Coast Guard successfully rescued seven mariners after their Iranian-registered commercial vessel, M/V Shayesteh, sank in the Arabian Gulf.

The ship, which was flying a Qatari flag in territorial waters, developed a list before going under.

According to U.S. Central Command, USS Devastator (MCM 6) and U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Clarence Sutphin Jr. (WPC 1147) responded to a mayday call from the distressed vessel.

The five Iranian and two Indian crew members had already abandoned the ship when the rescue teams arrived. They were brought aboard the USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr. and provided with medical care.

Officials have not disclosed details regarding the ship’s ownership or management.

The Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA), a U.S. Navy and Coast Guard unit based in Bahrain, played an important role in the rescue.

The PATFORSWA, established in 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom, operates six 154-foot Sentinel Class Fast Response Cutters, a 110-foot Island Class Patrol Boat, and a 150-member mission support detachment.

The unit is responsible for maritime security, interdiction, and theatre cooperation missions across the Middle East.

In June 2024, the Iranian frigate IRIN Jamaran was just eight nautical miles away from M/V Verbena when the latter was struck by Houthi missiles in the Red Sea.

Despite being nearby, the Iranian warship did not respond to the distress signal. The Verbena’s crew was later rescued by the merchant vessel M/V Anna Meta.

The U.S. officials have reiterated their commitment to ensuring maritime safety in the region.

Reference: US Centcom