Strait of Hormuz Crisis Leaves Thousands of Seafarers Stranded as Shipping Disruptions Escalate

Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz & Gulf of Oman displayed on ShipXplorer.com 

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has revealed the scale of disruption unfolding across global shipping, with around 3,200 vessels and nearly 20,000 seafarers currently stranded west of the Strait of Hormuz.

The figures, disclosed ahead of an extraordinary IMO Council session in London, highlight the severe impact of escalating attacks on merchant shipping across the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters.

A Rapidly Deteriorating Security Environment

The crisis began to take immediate shape on March 1, 2026, when four merchant vessels were attacked in a single day, resulting in the deaths of at least two seafarers and one port worker. Since then, further incidents have followed, with additional casualties and injuries reported among crews.

According to the IMO, the security situation has deteriorated across key maritime zones, including the Arabian Sea and the Sea of Oman. These waters form a critical corridor for global trade, particularly for energy shipments, making the current instability a major concern for international markets.

With threats ranging from missile strikes to drone and explosive-boat attacks, many ship operators are now unwilling—or unable—to risk transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The result is a growing backlog of vessels waiting outside the high-risk zone, effectively freezing a vital artery of global commerce.

Seafarers Caught in the Middle

At the heart of the crisis are the thousands of seafarers stranded on board vessels, facing prolonged uncertainty and mounting psychological strain.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has condemned the attacks and called for immediate de-escalation, stressing that civilian crews should not become collateral victims of geopolitical tensions.

Beyond physical safety, the situation is raising urgent concerns around mental health, access to communication, and the availability of essential supplies for those stuck at sea. Extended delays under already challenging conditions are placing additional pressure on crews with limited options for relief or evacuation.

Coordinated International Response

In response, the IMO has intensified coordination with governments, shipowners, and international organizations to track incidents and support affected vessels.

Collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO) is also underway, focusing on strengthening protections for seafarers and ensuring their rights and welfare remain a priority during the crisis.

At the same time, the IMO has urged strict adherence to established maritime safety frameworks, including SOLAS and the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code). Shipping companies are also encouraged to follow Best Management Practices for Maritime Security (BMPs), which guide operations in high-threat environments.