UN seeks safe corridor for 20,000 sailors stranded in the Persian Gulf Five countries have proposed a safe maritime corridor through the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to facilitate the evacuation of approximately 20,000 sailors stranded in the Persian Gulf. This initiative aims to protect the lives of seafarers caught in escalating geopolitical tensions, with at least seven sailors reported dead. Iran has stated its authorities continue to provide humanitarian aid to vessels in the region.

• Bahrain, Japan, Panama, Singapore, and the UAE proposed a safe maritime corridor at the IMO Council meeting in London.
• The proposal aims to secure the release of around 20,000 sailors stranded in the Persian Gulf.
• Hundreds of ships are anchored in the Gulf due to threats from Tehran to attack vessels attempting to leave via the Strait of Hormuz.
• The US supports the IMO’s framework for a safe maritime corridor to facilitate the evacuation of merchant ships and protect seafarers.
• IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez reported at least seven sailors have died in the conflict.
• Iran has informed the IMO that its authorities are providing humanitarian aid to sailors and ships in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.