Egypt declared seven people missing, including five foreigners. This was after a tourist vessel capsized in November off the coast of Egypt's Red Sea.

In a decree published on Sunday in the official gazette by the country's premier, two British tourists and two Polish citizens were deemed dead along with two Egyptians and a German. The Sea Story capsized near Sataya Reef in November while 31 tourists and 13 crew were on a multiday diving trip. The boat was hit by high waves, and it sank within five to seven minutes. At the time, four bodies were found.

The boat passed its last safety check eight months ago with no reported technical problems.

The vessel, owned by an Egyptian citizen, was 34 meters in length and had been granted a safety certificate for a period of one year from the Maritime Safety Authority. The incident was attributed to high waves in rough weather conditions.

The Sea Story is the second vessel to have sunk in the same area during the past year. In June, a vessel was severely damaged by strong waves. However, no injuries were reported. Six Russian tourists were killed when a viewing submerged off Hurghada in the Egyptian Red Sea.

The Red Sea is Egypt's major tourism hub, as it's known for its corals and marine life. Tourism plays a crucial role in Egypt's economy. (Reporting from Menna al-Din).

(source: Reuters)