Thousands of people aboard Malta-flagged vessels were helped through one of the region’s most volatile crises thanks to months of behind-the-scenes work by Maltese authorities, according to Minister for Sustainable Mobility Chris Bonett.In a statement, Bonett revealed that more than 16,000 people on board 70 vessels flying the Maltese flag found themselves caught up in the recent US-Iran conflict.“Few were aware of the work being carried out quietly by a number of Maltese workers,” the minister said.He explained that authorities immediately began coordinating efforts to protect the lives of those on board ships registered under Malta’s flag. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)According to Bonett, more than 8,000 passengers were evacuated from the conflict zone during the first week alone.He also revealed that two Malta-flagged vessels were directly hit during the conflict, while another sustained collateral damage.Despite the scale of the crisis, Bonett said Malta responded “with seriousness and responsibility”, adding that these values continue to strengthen the country’s international reputation in the maritime sector.The minister concluded by saying the operation serves as a reminder that freedom of navigation and maritime security should never be taken for granted, while highlighting the important role Malta continues to play as one of the world’s leading shipping registries.Video credits to Chris Bonett•