Seafarers caught in the US-Israeli war on Iran face mounting risks
A vital shipping passage under threat
Iran effectively closed the strait after US-Israeli attacks began, warning that ships sailing without authorisation could be targeted. Washington has also imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports.
Attacks and crew casualties
On Sunday, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said three oil tankers travelling on an unauthorised route in the strait had suffered explosions and severe fires. On Thursday, Iranian forces reported separate incidents in which five oil tankers and a tugboat caught fire.
Deaths reported by different sources
In September, two Filipino crew members were killed when projectiles hit the Saudi tanker Sidr near the Strait of Hormuz. The International Chamber of Shipping says placing seafarers in harm’s way during the conflict is unacceptable.
Stranded crews and legal protections
About 6,000 seafarers remained stranded near the strait in October, according to the IMO, which said in late August it was seeking arrangements to evacuate them. Efforts to establish safe passage have repeatedly encountered obstacles as attacks continue.
Safety guidance and compensation
The International Chamber of Shipping says the war has also affected sailors’ mental health. Its spokesperson urged ships in the region to assess risks carefully and follow the latest maritime security guidelines.
Key points
- Attacks on commercial vessels have continued in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
- The IMO records at least 25 deaths; an Iranian union leader reported 44 Iranian seafarers killed.
- At least 16 Indian seafarers have been killed, and two Filipino crew members died in September.
- About 6,000 seafarers were stranded near the strait in October.