The International Maritime Organization (IMO) reports that ongoing conflicts in the Middle East have left approximately 20,000 seafarers and 5,000 cruise ship passengers stranded, with challenges in ensuring their safe disembarkation and repatriation.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO), a United Nations agency, has confirmed that about 20,000 seafarers and 5,000 cruise ship passengers are currently stranded in the Middle East amid ongoing unrest in the region. The organization highlighted difficulties in guaranteeing safe crew disembarkation at ports due to affected port facilities. In a report covered by GTV News Balitanghali, the IMO stressed its readiness to assist in securing the safety and welfare of those trapped at sea. The continuing instability complicates repatriation efforts for seafarers. Additionally, seafarers in Greece have staged strikes demanding repatriation, reflecting wider concerns in the maritime industry. The IMO also advised against allowing ships access to areas subject to bombings involving U.S.-Israel actions against Iran. The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs and Department of Migrant Workers are reportedly monitoring the situation closely. This development underscores the vulnerability of seafarers and cruise passengers during regional conflicts and the importance of coordinated international response measures.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/balitambayan/pinoyabroad/979019/nasa-20k-seafarer-at-5k-cruise-ship-passengers-stranded-sa-middle-east-ayon-sa-imo/story/
