EFFORTS to evacuate seafarers caught up in the Persian Gulf conflict are set to begin, following the signing of the memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States.
In a statement, IMO secretary-general Arsenio Dominguez welcomed “with deep satisfaction the peace agreement”, marking “a decisive step towards restoring maritime security and bringing to an end the unacceptable attacks against civilian shipping”.
“We will begin the implementation of the evacuation plan for over 11,000 seafarers still stranded in the region. This large-scale operation will be carried out in close cooperation with Iran, Oman, all other coastal States in the region, the United States and the maritime industry,” Mr Dominguez said.
“We have secured the necessary safety guarantees and have thoroughly verified the conditions for safe navigation to support these operations.
“We remain fully committed to ensuring the safety of seafarers and the continuity of global trade.”
The secretary-general paid tribute to “the fourteen innocent seafarers who tragically lost their lives during this conflict”.
“Their dedication in service of global trade will not be forgotten,” he said.
Mission to Seafarers regional director Sue Dight said the IMO's focus on safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz was welcome and highlighted the importance of protecting both ships and seafarers.
“While much attention is rightly given to trade and security, we must not forget the human impact on crews operating in a region facing heightened tensions.”
Frontline Mission chaplains, including Bahrain’s Franklin Isaac, recently provided their own insights into the impact of the conflict on seafarers.
“Their message was clear: alongside safe passage for vessels, seafarers need access to welfare support, pastoral care and mental health assistance during periods of uncertainty,” Ms Dight said.
“MtS has also been supporting some of the abandoned crews with essentials such as food and water.”
Ms Dight said Mission to Seafarers chaplains and welfare teams were hearing directly from crews about the anxiety and fear created by the conflict.
“For many it is a question of ‘what’s going to impact us next?’” she said.
In a statement, the International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) welcomed the signing of the MoU, as well as the establishment of the joint working group between Iran and Oman.
“These developments represent important steps towards restoring maritime security and stability in the Middle East, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz,” IUMI stated.
“IUMI will continue to monitor the situation closely and hopes to see the safe, orderly and timely movement of vessels in the region. As with all stakeholders across the maritime sector, the safety, security and welfare of seafarers remain the priority.”