The International Maritime Organization (IMO) said on Tuesday it will begin a large-scale evacuation of about 11,000 seafarers stranded in and around the Strait of Hormuz, following a new Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran that the agency says marks a decisive step toward restoring maritime security.
IMO Secretary‑General Arsenio Dominguez welcomed the peace agreement, saying it ends “unacceptable attacks against civilian shipping” and paves the way for immediate action to protect seafarers and global trade.
“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,” Dominguez said in a statement.
He paid tribute to 14 seafarers who lost their lives during the conflict and said their service to global trade “will not be forgotten.”
The evacuation operation will be conducted in close cooperation with Iran, Oman, other coastal states in the region, the United States and the maritime industry, the IMO said. The organization added that it has secured the necessary safety guarantees and verified conditions for safe navigation to support the mission.
The IMO did not provide a detailed timeline or logistical breakdown but said the operation aims to ensure the safety of seafarers and the continuity of global trade. Around 11,000 seafarers are expected to be evacuated from the region.
The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic choke point for global energy and shipping. Tensions in the area in recent months disrupted commercial shipping and prompted international concern over the safety of civilian vessels and crews.
The scribe was quoted saying “We remain fully committed to ensuring the safety of seafarers and the continuity of global trade.”
The statement further stressed that Authorities and industry partners are expected to publish operational details and timelines in the coming days as coordination between coastal states and shipping companies intensifies.
