WASHINGTON, Feb 18 (KUNA) -- US Navy and Coast Guard rescued seven mariners in distress who abandoned their Iranian commercial vessel in the Arabian Gulf on Tuesday.
A statement by the Navy said "Great work today by personnel aboard the US Navy ship USS Devastator (MCM 6) and US Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) CLARENCE SUTPHIN JR (WPC 1147)." "They rescued seven mariners in distress who abandoned their vessel, M/V SHAYESTEH.
The M/V SHAYESTEH is an Iranian vessel and was flying a Qatari flag, which is customary when in territorial waters," the statement added.
"The vessel had a significant list and issued a mayday call for help. The M/V SHAYESTEH has since sunk," the statement said.
"The five Iranian and two Indian mariners are safely onboard USCGC CLARENCE SUTPHIN JR and are receiving follow on medical care," the statement added. (end) rsr.mb