6,000 Seafarers Stranded Near Hormuz as Attacks Deepen Shipping Crisis

International Maritime Organization Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said on Sunday that conditions have become more dangerous, with reports of 24 ships being attacked in about two weeks and no guarantees of safe passage through one of the world's most important shipping lanes. Dominguez added to Fox News Digital that 'the situation remains dangerous and sensitive for international shipping,' explaining that there is a 'double blockade and far too many ships have been attacked, especially in recent days.'

According to the IMO, 100 maritime incidents have been confirmed in the region as of October 9, and 24 seafarers have been killed since the conflict began on February 28. Around 6,000 seafarers remain stranded near the strait since the start of the conflict, and Dominguez urged ships to avoid crossing the waterway until adequate guarantees are provided.

Concerns were not limited to the attacks. A separate dispute arose over alleged misuse of VHF Channel 16, the international frequency designated for maritime distress and safety, following Iranian accusations that U.S. forces are using it to threaten Iranian civilian crews. Iran stated in a letter circulated to member states of the organization on October 9 that 'Channel 16 has been repeatedly occupied for extended periods by U.S. military forces operating in the Gulf,' alleging that Iranian mariners were addressed in Persian with threatening and abusive language, calling on the organization to raise the issue. Iran did not provide recordings or transcripts to support its claims.

For its part, U.S. Central Command defended the enforcement of the naval blockade on Iranian ports, emphasizing that blockade procedures are known to all international mariners, and that ships refusing to comply receive multiple warnings. Dominguez stressed that merchant seafarers are not parties to conflicts and are not trained for combat. He warned that fraudulent ship registration and operating under flags of convenience have become more prominent, confirming ongoing communication with Iranian representatives through official channels, but without direct contact with the Revolutionary Guards.

What do these terms mean?

International Maritime Organization: A United Nations agency responsible for the safety of navigation, security of ships, and protection of seafarers.

Naval Blockade: A military action that prevents ships from entering or leaving a country's ports, or restricts their movement.

Channel 16: An internationally designated radio frequency for distress calls and maritime safety, which must remain available to all ships.