Thousands of commercial sailors remain stranded near the Strait of Hormuz as escalating vessel attacks intensify security concerns across one of the world’s most critical waterways. The crisis has left approximately 6,000 seafarers trapped since the outbreak of conflict, prompting warnings from international maritime authorities urging commercial crews to avoid the region.
International Maritime Organization Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez described the regional shipping environment as severe and critical, pointing to a double blockade and a surge in vessel strikes. According to reports cited by the organization, 24 ships were attacked on the waterway over a span of roughly two weeks, while total confirmed maritime incidents across the region reached 100 as of October 9. The conflict, which began on February 28, has resulted in 24 seafarer fatalities.
Dominguez cautioned against attempting transits through the strait, stating that crews should not risk their safety until firm guarantees are established. Highlighting the vulnerability of commercial personnel, the IMO chief noted that seafarers are not trained for combat and bear no responsibility for geopolitical conflicts.
The growing danger along the waterway has been compounded by rising instances of fraudulent ship registrations and false flags. According to maritime officials, irresponsible shipowners are utilizing false flags and acting as shuttle tankers to move goods in and out of ports, contributing significantly to the regional escalation.
The warnings follow a formal complaint submitted to the IMO on October 9 by Seyed Ali Mousavi, Iran’s ambassador to the organization. In the letter, Tehran accused the United States military of misusing VHF Channel 16—an internationally designated maritime distress and safety channel—for prolonged periods in the Persian Gulf. Iran alleged that American forces utilized the frequency to broadcast threatening, abusive, and provocative language in Persian to Iranian crews, in some instances urging them to abandon their vessels.
United States Central Command defended its naval operations, emphasizing that enforcement of the blockade against Iranian ports has been in place for months and is communicated professionally to international mariners. Officials stated that vessels refusing to comply with blockade directives receive multiple warnings and ample opportunity to conform before forces take action, maintaining that American personnel operate with high vigilance and professionalism.
While the Iranian complaint cited commercial shipping operators and regional vessels, it did not provide specific transcripts, recordings, or detailed exchange logs. The claims could not be independently verified.
Dominguez stated that the IMO could review its regulations and operational procedures to determine whether enhanced safeguards or clearer guidelines regarding emergency channel usage are necessary. Although no formal investigation was launched, the maritime official confirmed that diplomatic communications with Iran remain open through official member-state channels, even as broader regional decisions remain difficult to secure.
