Azerbaijan raises alarm over sailor safety in conflict-affected waters

The State Maritime and Port Agency (DDLA) has urged Azerbaijani sailors to exercise caution and carefully evaluate security risks before accepting voyages to areas affected by military conflicts and active hostilities.

The agency specifically highlighted heightened risks in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, as well as in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf, calling on seafarers to consider official security warnings before entering such waters, Caliber.Az reports.

According to the agency, sailors should thoroughly assess potential dangers before agreeing to work in high-risk maritime zones.

“We are deeply shocked by the news received in recent months about the deaths of Azerbaijani sailors who were working aboard vessels flying the flags of various countries in foreign waters. We recommend taking into account warnings and instructions issued by official security authorities, and, where possible, refraining from such voyages,” the agency said.

The DDLA also called on shipping companies and relevant maritime organizations to make the safety of crews their top priority, implement necessary protective measures when operating in dangerous areas, and avoid high-risk routes whenever possible.

“We call on all Azerbaijani sailors to exercise caution, care for their own safety and the safety of their families, and stay away from conflict zones,” the statement added.

The agency’s warning comes after the Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs previously advised citizens to avoid traveling to regions affected by armed conflicts and ongoing military tensions.

By Vafa Guliyeva