An evacuation plan is now active to allow hundreds of ships, carrying approximately 11,000 seafarers, to transit the Strait of Hormuz following a reported ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States. The United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO) confirmed the initiative.
A spokesperson for the IMO stated that contact has commenced with the stranded vessels to initiate the evacuation process, though a specific timeline was not provided. The agency indicated it has obtained the requisite safety assurances and has meticulously confirmed the conditions necessary for secure navigation to facilitate these operations.
This significant undertaking will involve extensive collaboration with Iran, Oman, other regional coastal states, the United States, and the broader maritime industry, according to IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez. The announcement suggests a resolution to the maritime standoff that has impacted commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf.
