UN Evacuation Plan Paused: Ensuring Safety in the Strait of Hormuz
IMO’s Evacuation Plan on Hold
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has temporarily paused its evacuation plan for sailors in the Strait of Hormuz after a cargo ship was attacked. IMO chief Arsenio Dominguez confirmed that several boats had already been evacuated but emphasized the need for ongoing safety guarantees.
Strait of Hormuz Attack
On Thursday, the UKMTO reported a ship was struck by an unknown projectile 7.5 nautical miles southeast of Oman’s port of Dahit. The Singapore-flagged Ever Lovely, managed by maritime risk firm Vanguard, continued its journey despite the attack, with no reported casualties.
US officials, according to media reports, believe Iran was responsible for the attack. The Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), established by Iran, warned that vessels using unauthorized routes would not be guaranteed safe passage.
UN Evacuation Efforts and Regional Cooperation
The UN’s evacuation operation, announced on Tuesday, aimed to assist over 11,000 stranded sailors. Dominguez highlighted the cooperation of Iran, Oman, the US, regional coastal states, and the maritime industry in this large-scale effort.
However, the attacked vessel, Ever Lovely, was not part of the IMO’s evacuation framework. Dominguez assured that the safety of seafarers remains a top priority, and the evacuation plan will be paused until further clarity is obtained.
Recent Developments and the Iran Deal
The US and Iran recently agreed to end hostilities under a 14-point deal, which included provisions for the safe passage of commercial vessels. However, Tehran has indicated its intention to charge maritime service fees for crossing the strait.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, currently in Bahrain, has warned against any tolls on the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing its status as an international waterway. This issue is a key point of discussion during Rubio’s tour of the Gulf.
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz is a complex and evolving one, with global implications. As the UN and regional powers work towards a resolution, ensuring the safety of sailors and vessels remains a top priority.