A tourist submarine sank off Egypt's Hurghada coast on Thursday morning, resulting in six fatalities and prompting an extensive rescue operation. The vessel, operated by Sindbad Submarines, was conducting a routine coral reef exploration when it experienced difficulties approximately one kilometer offshore.

Of the 39 passengers aboard, mostly Russian nationals, 33 were rescued, though 21 required hospitalization, including seven children aged 2 to 15. Survivors reported experiencing shock and minor injuries.

Eyewitnesses described the submarine suddenly tilting before its rapid descent. Sindbad Submarines, which advertises Finnish engineering and depths of up to 25 meters, is now under scrutiny regarding its safety measures and emergency equipment.

The incident occurred at 10:00 a.m. local time in Hurghada, a crucial Red Sea resort hub contributing to Egypt's tourism sector, which represents 12% of the nation's GDP. This follows a series of marine incidents in the region, including a yacht sinking in November.

Egyptian maritime officials have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. The company maintains the submarine had passed all regular inspections and is cooperating with investigators.

Both Russian and Egyptian officials are coordinating response efforts, with rescue teams continuing to search the area. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities is expected to release an official statement as investigations proceed.

This incident has raised concerns about marine vessel safety standards in the region, particularly given recent reports highlighting issues with aging vessels and regulatory oversight. The tragedy may impact Egypt's tourism industry, which had been recovering post-COVID.

As technical investigations and autopsies continue, authorities are working to piece together the events leading to this tragic incident, with more updates expected in the coming days.

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