Iran and US Agreement Leads to Evacuation Plan for 11,000 Sailors from Hormuz Strait

London, June 24: The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has announced a plan to evacuate over 11,000 sailors stranded in the Hormuz Strait. This initiative follows a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Iran and the United States.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez stated that the organization has secured the necessary safety approvals for the rescue operation and has assessed the status of safe maritime routes. According to Xinhua News Agency, this operation will be conducted in collaboration with Iran, Oman, other regional countries, and the maritime industry.

Dominguez welcomed the peace agreement between Iran and the US, describing it as a significant step towards enhancing maritime security and preventing attacks on commercial vessels. The prolonged conflict had caused distress for thousands of sailors and impacted global trade.

He paid tribute to the 14 sailors who lost their lives during the conflict, emphasizing that their contributions to global trade will never be forgotten. Dominguez reiterated that the IMO prioritizes the safety of sailors, the freedom of maritime routes, and the uninterrupted flow of global trade.

On June 15, Dominguez noted that implementing this evacuation plan would take time, as it is essential to ensure all necessary safety and rescue arrangements are in place. He reaffirmed the IMO’s commitment to maritime safety, protecting sailors, ensuring freedom of movement at sea, and maintaining global trade.

According to IMO data, from the end of February to June 11, there were 46 recorded incidents involving ships in and around the Hormuz Strait, resulting in the deaths of 14 sailors. Dominguez expressed condolences to the families of the victims, commending the courage and patience of sailors in uncertain conditions.

Meanwhile, Iran’s ambassador and permanent representative to the UN office in Geneva, Ali Bahreini, stated that the Hormuz Strait is now fully open for commercial vessels, and no tolls will be charged. He mentioned that the situation will be reassessed after 60 days, depending on ongoing negotiations between Iran and the US.