Hundreds of Ships Trapped in the Persian Gulf Due to Clashes
The International Maritime Organization announced that hundreds of ships carrying thousands of seafarers are unable to leave the Persian Gulf due to ongoing clashes.
International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez announced that nearly 400 ships carrying approximately 6,000 seafarers are unable to safely leave the Persian Gulf due to ongoing clashes. Warnings were issued that the severe impact of this crisis on the global economy and supply chains will be heavy.
Ships and Seafarers Trapped
Drawing attention to the latest situation in the region, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez reported that some ships and crew members have managed to leave the Persian Gulf.
However, it was stated that nearly 400 ships carrying approximately 6,000 seafarers have been unable to safely exit the region since the beginning of the clashes.
Global Supply Chain at Risk
Issuing warnings that the crisis will have severe impacts in both the short and long term, Dominguez stated that supply chains would be disrupted.
It was emphasized that the disruption of vital supply chains for fuel, fertilizer, and other essential commodities will have direct consequences on societies and economies worldwide.
Global Setback in Maritime Security
IMO Secretary-General Dominguez shared his deep concern with the public regarding the regression of maritime security worldwide.
It was noted that the deterioration of global maritime security, from the Black Sea to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, harms everyone and is alarming for innocent seafarers.
Call for Passage in the Strait of Hormuz
Dominguez reminded that the IMO Council adopted a draft decision in July aimed at protecting vital maritime routes.
It was emphasized that the right of transit passage through straits used for international navigation must not be hindered.
A call was made for a coordinated and sustainable return to ensure the restoration of unobstructed passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Regional Conflicts and Political Developments
The Strait of Hormuz, located in the Persian Gulf and open to civil maritime traffic before the war, constitutes the focal point of clashes between the US and Iran.
Despite about six months passing since the initial attacks by Israel and the US against Iran, diplomatic efforts toward resolving the crisis have stalled.
While the Iranian administration demands concessions from the US, US President Donald Trump aims to increase pressure on Tehran through economic warfare.