IMO Warns 6,000 Sailors Trapped in Hormuz Double Blockade

International Maritime Organization Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez warned that approximately 6,000 sailors are trapped near the Strait of Hormuz due to a double blockade and escalating attacks on commercial shipping. Since the conflict began on February 28, the IMO has recorded 100 maritime incidents and 24 seafarer deaths, with 24 ships attacked in the last two weeks alone.

Iran has formally accused the United States military of using VHF Channel 16, an international emergency and safety channel, to intimidate and threaten Iranian crews in the Persian Gulf. U.S. Central Command defended its operations, stating that its naval blockade of Iranian ports has been in place for months and is professionally communicated to all international mariners.

Dominguez advised against transiting the Strait of Hormuz until safety guarantees are established. He noted that the use of false flags and fraudulent ship registrations has contributed to the escalation of the crisis.