London, United Kingdom – The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) confirmed that approximately 8,000 seafarers remain aboard 500 vessels in need of evacuation from the Strait of Hormuz.
He emphasized that the IMO continues to work with member states to ensure the safety of navigation.
He also stated that imposing transit fees in the Strait violates international law.
Thousands of sailors await evacuation
The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) told Sky News Arabia
that approximately 8,000 seafarers aboard nearly 500 vessels still need to be evacuated from the Strait of Hormuz.
He confirmed that the IMO is monitoring developments in coordination
with member states to ensure the safety of maritime crews and the smooth flow of shipping.
He added that any developments affecting the safety of seafarers necessitate a coordinated international response.
This is essential to maintaining the flow of maritime traffic.
International cooperation to protect navigation
He explained that the International Maritime Organization (IMO) works closely
with its member states to enhance maritime safety in the region.
He noted that the IMO has established measures and guidelines to address
the risks of piracy and attacks that may target commercial vessels.
He affirmed that mine clearance operations in the Strait of Hormuz,
when necessary, are conducted collaboratively among the concerned states.
This is also done in coordination with relevant authorities to ensure the safe reopening of the waterway.
A position regarding transit fees
The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization stressed that any geopolitical situation
that negatively impacts seafarers must be addressed through dialogue and international cooperation.
He warned of the repercussions of continued tensions on the maritime transport sector.
And he added that imposing transit fees on ships in the Strait of Hormuz is a violation of international law.
He also affirmed that freedom of navigation in international waterways is
a fundamental principle that must be respected in accordance with international rules and agreements.
