Egypt has secured the release of nine Egyptian fishermen aboard a vessel detained in Saudi Arabia after accidentally entering the kingdom’s territorial waters, according to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, 7 November.
The fishing vessel, Mohamed Abu Al-Aza’im, was detained on 16 October in the Tabuk region along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast after entering Saudi territorial waters without the required authorisation.
The ministry confirmed that the vessel had departed Tabuk with all nine Egyptian crew members on board and was heading back to Egypt.
It added that the vessel had been supplied with fuel, food, and other necessary provisions to ensure the crew’s safe return.
According to the ministry, the release followed diplomatic efforts and coordination between Egyptian and Saudi authorities.
The Foreign Ministry also urged fishermen and vessel operators to comply with maritime navigation and fishing regulations and avoid entering the territorial waters of neighbouring countries without obtaining the necessary permits.
The ministry warned that failing to follow these regulations could lead to legal complications and put fishermen’s safety at risk.
On 26 October, the Foreign Ministry announced that Egypt’s consulate in Jeddah had contacted Saudi coast guard and port authorities to secure the vessel’s release. The consulate also sent a representative to visit the nine fishermen, check on their condition, and ensure they were receiving the necessary care.
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