6,000 Seafarers Trapped in Persian Gulf Amid Conflict

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) estimates that roughly 6,000 seafarers from various nations remain trapped on vessels in the Persian Gulf, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, as hostilities between the United States and Iran continue despite a cease‑fire. Crew members describe living under constant threat and psychological stress. One captain told Bloomberg, “We are just people. We are fathers, we are sons, we are husbands, staying for months at sea performing our duty.” Another captain recalled, “All the scenario changed… we suddenly found ourselves inside a war zone and there was no safe way out.”

The situation has heightened uncertainty for maritime safety, with ships unable to navigate the contested waters safely. The IMO has condemned the attacks and called on shipping operators to avoid the area while diplomatic channels work to secure the crew’s safe return, underscoring the broader impact on global trade and the well‑being of the trapped sailors.