The International Maritime Organization (IMO) recently announced plans to evacuate more than 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz following the peace agreement between the United States and Iran, marking a significant step toward restoring maritime security in one of the world’s most critical shipping corridors.
In a statement issued after the signing of the memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez welcomed the agreement, saying it would help end months of disruption to international shipping and allow stranded crews to leave the region safely.
“After months of hardship and distress for thousands of innocent seafarers, and negative impact for the whole world, I welcome with deep satisfaction the peace agreement concluded between the United States and Iran.”
The evacuation effort, which he described as a large-scale operation, will be conducted in coordination with Iran, Oman, other coastal states in the region, the United States and maritime industry stakeholders.
According to Mr. Dominguez, the necessary safety guarantees have been secured and navigational conditions have been verified to support the operation.
The Strait of Hormuz, a strategic chokepoint connecting the Persian Gulf to global markets, has been at the center of maritime security concerns in recent months as tensions in the region disrupted commercial shipping and left thousands of seafarers unable to leave affected vessels.
Mr. Dominguez also paid tribute to the 14 seafarers who lost their lives during the conflict.
“Their dedication in service of global trade will not be forgotten,” he said.
He reiterated that the IMO remains committed to safeguarding seafarers and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of global trade as maritime traffic in the region gradually returns to normal.
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