Sailors Trapped in Persian Gulf Amid Iran War

Key facts

• Approximately 20,000 seafarers are trapped in the Persian Gulf, unable to leave through the Strait of Hormuz.
• Since February 28, vessels in the region have been targeted by projectiles, explosive boats, drones, and other weapons.
• As of March 17, 17 ships had been hit, resulting in seven seafarer deaths and multiple injuries or disappearances.
• Hundreds of merchant vessels are waiting to transit the Strait of Hormuz, with some ships directly struck by missiles.
• Crews are broadcasting their nationalities to avoid being identified with the U.S., Israel, or allied nations.
• The International Maritime Organization (IMO) held an emergency meeting and condemned Iran's actions.

Thousands of civilian workers remain stranded on ships in the Persian Gulf, unable to transit the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran. Approximately 20,000 seafarers are trapped, facing risks from drone and missile attacks, with some vessels being directly hit.

Since the war began on February 28, vessels in the region have been struck by projectiles, explosive boats, drones, and other weapons. As of March 17, 17 ships had been hit, resulting in seven seafarer deaths and multiple injuries or disappearances, according to the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Hundreds of merchant vessels are moored at the eastern end of the Gulf, waiting for the strait to become passable. To avoid being targeted, crews are broadcasting their nationalities, stating affiliations like "China owner & crew" or "Indian ship Ind crew."

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) convened an emergency meeting on March 18-19 to discuss the perilous situation, ultimately condemning Iran's threats and attacks on merchant vessels. However, this resolution is not expected to end the hostilities.

Seafarers are unable to abandon their ships, leading to a daily rhythm of fear and boredom. Many have been at sea since November, with their work and mental health already disrupted by previous crises like the COVID-19 pandemic and Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.