Black Sea Kills 40 Seafarers, Doubling Gulf Toll

The Black Sea has become the deadliest body of water for seafarers in 2026, with a higher death toll than the Gulf. Shipowners and maritime organizations reported that the region now poses the greatest threat to crews on oil tankers, cargo ships, and grain carriers.

Data from the maritime security firm Ambrey and the International Maritime Organisation indicates that more than 570 ships were targeted in the Black Sea this year. At least 40 seafarers have been killed in these incidents. By comparison, 24 deaths have been confirmed in the Strait of Hormuz. Estimates suggest the frequency of attacks in the Black Sea is more than six times higher than in the Gulf.

Ambrey noted that the third quarter of the year saw an average of more than four attacks every day. Some vessels were deliberately targeted, while others were caught in crossfire when ports came under bombardment. The waters are close to EU and NATO territory, placing ships in a high-risk zone.

Oleh Hryhoriuk, chair of the Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine, described the situation as near suicidal for those calling at Ukrainian ports. He stated, "For me, the Black Sea and calling [at] Ukrainian ports is near suicidal." Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu said Russia is turning the Black Sea into a danger zone for civilian vessels.

Economic factors are influencing how shipping companies respond to the danger. Record-high freight rates have convinced some firms to accept the risks of carrying oil from the Middle East. In the Black Sea, however, shipping groups report that most operators are unwilling to send their fleets. Profit margins in that region are lower, and the risks of trading there are considerably greater than elsewhere.