The ITF has highlighted another crew abandonment case involving the general cargo ship Lady Mina. The crew, owed $68,000, has been working beyond their contracts since May 2026. Despite serious deficiencies and expired contracts, the shipowner has failed to repatriate the remaining seafarers, prompting legal action and vessel detention.
Approximately 6,000 seafarers are currently stranded on numerous vessels in the Gulf, as reported by the head of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Arsenio Dominguez has called for all involved parties to exercise restraint and work towards de-escalation amidst rising tensions. Dominguez condemned recent attacks on ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz.
As of Tuesday, 50 ships have navigated the Strait of Hormuz since the West Asia conflict began on February 28. Currently, nine Indian vessels are operational in the Persian Gulf, carrying 198 Indian seafarers. Experts warn that regular shipping operations may take time to resume in the region.
The International Maritime Organization’s Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, has urgently called for global action to secure the release of 44 seafarers held captive by pirates off Somalia. Highlighting critical shortages of food and water, Dominguez emphasized the need for coordinated international efforts to address the rising threats of piracy and armed robbery at sea.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITWF) and the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG) have extended the designation of the Strait of Hormuz as a “Warlike Operations Area” until July 9. This decision follows recent attacks on cargo ships, highlighting ongoing risks for seafarers, who will continue to receive double pay in the region.
India and Seychelles have strengthened maritime cooperation by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the mutual recognition of seafarers’ training and certification. This agreement, a result of Prime Minister Modi’s visit, enables qualified Indian seafarers to work on Seychelles-flagged vessels, enhancing employment opportunities and aligning with global maritime standards.
The Mission to Seafarers raised $506,000 during its inaugural Maritime Mountain Race on June 27, 2026. With 32 teams participating in the Swiss Alps, funds will support vital welfare programs for seafarers. The event showcased remarkable teamwork and spirit, culminating in a barbecue and awards ceremony, celebrating the participants’ achievements.
Seafarers’ Rights International commemorated the Day of the Seafarer by advocating for greater international cooperation to protect seafarers affected by geopolitical tensions and conflicts. This year’s theme, “Carrying world trade. Carrying the risks,” highlights the dangers faced by commercial shipping, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated action among stakeholders.
Dominguez emphasized the overlooked struggles of seafarers facing perilous conditions amid ongoing conflicts. He lamented the tragic loss of 14 seafarers from over 40 attacks, urging for immediate action. The IMO chief is working to provide essential support for those stranded, highlighting the necessity of prioritizing the safety of these individuals.
Approximately 115 vessels and 2,500 seafarers have been evacuated from the Strait of Hormuz since Tuesday, according to Arsenio Dominguez of the International Maritime Organization. This update follows the suspension of evacuation efforts for 600 ships after a recent attack in the Gulf of Oman, raising safety concerns for maritime operations.
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has paused its evacuation efforts for stranded seafarers in the Persian Gulf after an attack on a vessel in the Gulf of Oman. This decision follows the unveiling of a plan to evacuate over 11,000 seafarers, disrupted by rising tensions in the US-Iran conflict.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) plans to evacuate over 11,000 sailors from the Middle East after a U.S.-Iran agreement aimed at restoring peace. Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez confirmed that the operation will be conducted with regional partners and emphasized the importance of maritime security amid ongoing conflict.
BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping, INTERCARGO, and INTERCARGO have condemned the recent attacks on seafarers and vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. With 46 confirmed assaults since February 28, 2026, resulting in 14 fatalities, they stress the need for immediate action to ensure the safety of maritime operations and uphold international law.
In response to rising safety concerns for Indian seafarers amid recent vessel attacks in West Asia, the Directorate General of Shipping has launched e-Navik 24×7, a digital grievance redressal platform. This initiative enables seafarers and shipping companies to submit and track complaints in real time, enhancing support and efficiency.
The recent spike in attacks on ships and seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz has been strongly condemned by key maritime organizations. Citing 46 incidents and 14 deaths since February 2026, they stress urgent respect for international law, immediate protection for seafarers, and de-escalation to ensure maritime security and free navigation.
