What Crew Members Say About Barbaros-Hayreddin-P

In a move that escalates tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, Turkey has deployed its second research vessel, the 'Barbaros Hayreddin P', into the contentious waters off Cyprus. This operation, aimed at exploring potential oil and gas reserves, comes despite significant criticism from the European Union. The 'Barbaros Hayreddin P' has been spotted east of Cyprus since July 30, 2020, as reported by a Turkish navigation station. Additionally, the Turkish seismic research ship, 'Yavuz', has been actively conducting operations southwest of the island for several months. The search for hydrocarbons in the Cypriot seabed has triggered increasing friction between Turkey and Cyprus, especially given that Turkey does not recognize the Republic of Cyprus as a legitimate state. The historical context is rooted in Turkey's occupation of Northern Cyprus since 1974, which it claims as an independent region. Ankara firmly opposes any gas exploration activities in the region that do not have approval from the Turkish-controlled area of Cyprus. In response to these actions, the EU has insisted that Turkey should withdraw its vessels from what it considers exclusive European waters. However, Turkey challenges the legitimacy of these exclusive claims, arguing that it is acting in the interests of Northern Cyprus.

On February 16, 2020, a tragic incident unfolded aboard the 'Barbaros Hayreddin' Pasa, currently operating within the Cyprus Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), resulting in the untimely death of a 53-year-old British crew member, Christopher Ross Macculloch. Feeling unwell in the early hours of the morning, Macculloch's condition rapidly declined, prompting an urgent medevac by a Turkish helicopter. After being airlifted from the vessel, he was transported to Tymbou airport and subsequently admitted to a university hospital. Despite the unwavering efforts of medical professionals, Macculloch was pronounced dead at 11:45 a.m. This unfortunate incident highlights the inherent risks faced by maritime crews and the critical nature of swift medical response in emergencies.

On January 11, 2015, the research vessel 'Barbaros Hayreddin Pasha' experienced an engine failure while navigating in the waters of Famagusta Bay, Cyprus. In response to the distress call, Turkish salvage teams and coast guard vessels promptly mobilized to provide assistance. Fortunately, the vessel was able to navigate to an anchorage near Famagusta under her own power, ensuring the safety of her crew and equipment.