The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has announced plans for a large-scale operation to evacuate approximately 11,000 seafarers stranded on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. This operation is being coordinated with Iran, Oman, and other regional countries, as well as the United States and the maritime sector.
According to IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, security guarantees have been secured, although specific timelines for the evacuation have yet to be disclosed. Dominguez noted that 14 seafarers lost their lives during the U.S. conflict with Iran in the region, emphasizing that their dedication to global trade will not be forgotten.
On June 22, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the complete reopening of shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for a significant portion of global oil supplies that had been blocked by Iranian and subsequently U.S. forces amid ongoing hostilities. Both Iranian and Omani authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining free and unrestricted navigation.
On June 18, the U.S. and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the conflict in the Middle East, conducted remotely. The agreement stipulates that both nations will cease all military operations, including actions in Lebanon, and refrain from future threats against each other. A final agreement is expected to be reached within 60 days.
On the same day, Iran and the U.S. established a roadmap to facilitate this final agreement within the specified timeframe, as reported by mediators Qatar and Pakistan following the first round of negotiations in Switzerland.
Additionally, on June 22, the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued a temporary general license allowing for the production, supply, and sale of Iranian oil, which will remain in effect until the end of August 2026.
The IMO is organizing an evacuation for 11,000 seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz, collaborating with various nations. Recent agreements between the U.S. and Iran aim to stabilize the region and ensure safe maritime navigation.