The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has announced the launch of a comprehensive plan to evacuate more than 11,000 seafarers stranded due to navigation disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, in coordination with concerned countries and international entities.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez stated that the operation will be conducted in collaboration with Iran, Oman, and other coastal countries, as well as the United States and the maritime shipping sector. He noted the acquisition of necessary security assurances to ensure safe passage operations.
The organization clarified that the plan involves evacuating crew members from between 500 and 600 ships currently stranded in the Arabian Gulf region. It emphasized initiating communication with relevant vessels to begin organized transit operations through the strait.
In the same context, an international announcement included directives and guidelines issued by Oman to manage vessel movement during the upcoming phase, ensuring smooth navigation and the safety of maritime crews.
The Omani capital, Muscat, hosted discussions involving Omani and Iranian officials, with the participation of Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, where both parties reiterated their commitment to ensuring safe transit through the strait under international law.
These efforts aim to restore stability to maritime navigation in one of the world's most crucial trade corridors, serving as a vital artery for energy flow and international trade, amidst global efforts to prevent new disruptions that could impact global markets and maritime shipping.