2,000 Ships, 20,000 Seafarers Stranded in Gulf

Nearly 2,000 vessels carrying around 20,000 seafarers are stranded in the Gulf due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, according to the International Maritime Organization.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Domínguez described the situation in the Strait of Hormuz as critical, with ships unable to transit the vital passage. The disruption has raised concerns over the need to ration essential supplies, including food, water, and fuel, for crews stuck at sea.

Regional countries are providing assistance to stranded sailors, including medical support when required, as the crisis continues to disrupt one of the world’s most important shipping routes.

Domínguez confirmed that evacuation plans are under discussion with regional states, particularly Iran and Oman. He indicated that clearing the backlog of vessels could take several weeks and stressed that any operation must first ensure the area is free of potential threats such as naval mines.

Once risks are mitigated, maritime traffic is expected to return to normal levels, with approximately 130 to 135 ships passing daily through the Strait of Hormuz.

The IMO chief also rejected the idea of imposing transit fees in the strait, stating there is no legal basis under international law for such measures. He emphasized that freedom of navigation through international straits is a fundamental principle and not subject to negotiation.

Domínguez added that while Iran can propose changes related to navigation routes, any such proposal must be coordinated with Oman in accordance with international law.