Black Sea Deaths Top Gulf Toll as Drone Attacks Triple Ship Frequency

Seafarers entering the Black Sea now face a higher probability of death than those sailing through the Strait of Hormuz. The region has become the most dangerous body of water for maritime crews in 2026, according to data reviewed by the Financial Times.

Ambrey and the International Maritime Organisation report that 570 ships were targeted in the Black Sea this year. At least 40 seafarers have been killed. By contrast, 24 deaths have been confirmed in the Gulf. Some estimates suggest the frequency of attacks in the Black Sea is more than six times higher than in the Gulf.

Oleh Hryhoriuk, chair of the Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine, described the risk as near suicidal. He stated that calling at Ukrainian ports has become dangerous for crews aboard oil tankers, cargo ships, and grain carriers.

Ambrey data shows an average of more than four attacks per day during the third quarter of the year. Vessels were hit either by deliberate targeting or by crossfire during port bombardments. The threat has altered global shipping patterns.

Shipping groups say most operators are unwilling to send fleets to the Black Sea because profit margins are lower and risks are higher. In the Gulf, record-high freight rates have persuaded some firms to accept the danger of carrying Middle Eastern oil.

Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu said Russia is turning the Black Sea into a danger zone for civilian vessels. The shift in deadly waters marks a change in where maritime losses are concentrated this year.