**UN Launches Evacuation Operation for 11,000 Stranded Seafarers in the Gulf**
*Published on June 23, 2026*
In a significant development following a recent peace agreement between the United States and Iran, the United Nations has initiated an operation to evacuate over 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Gulf region. The operation, announced by the UN's International Maritime Organization (IMO), comes as commercial shipping resumes through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, which had been effectively closed due to escalating conflicts earlier this year.
The peace agreement, which ended months of hostilities, has allowed for the resumption of maritime traffic in one of the world's most crucial shipping routes. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez confirmed that the evacuation operation would be conducted in collaboration with regional nations, including Iran and Oman, as well as the shipping industry.
"This large-scale operation will be carried out in close cooperation with Iran, Oman, all other coastal States in the region, the United States, and the maritime industry," Dominguez stated. He emphasized that the necessary safety guarantees have been secured and that the conditions for safe navigation have been thoroughly verified to support the evacuation efforts.
The Strait of Hormuz had been closed following the outbreak of conflict on February 28, which was triggered by US and Israeli military strikes. This closure not only stranded thousands of sailors but also led to a spike in global oil prices and disrupted the shipment of essential commodities, including energy supplies and fertilizers.
As the situation stabilizes, shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has notably increased. Data from shipping analytics platform Kpler indicates that at least 36 commodity vessels successfully navigated the strait on Monday, marking the highest traffic levels since the onset of the conflict.
The IMO has outlined that two temporary routes through the strait will be utilized during the evacuation process, with individual instructions provided to each ship involved. Dominguez expressed relief and satisfaction regarding the peace agreement between the US and Iran, highlighting its importance for maritime security and the welfare of the seafaring community. "After months of hardship and distress for thousands of innocent seafarers, and negative impacts for the whole world, I welcome with deep satisfaction the peace agreement concluded between the United States and Iran," he remarked.
The successful implementation of this evacuation operation is seen as a crucial step in restoring normalcy to maritime operations in the region, while also addressing the humanitarian needs of the stranded seafarers. The UN's coordinated efforts with regional partners aim to ensure a safe and efficient evacuation process as the shipping industry begins to recover from the disruptions caused by the conflict.
As the operation unfolds, the international community will be closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of all involved and to facilitate the return of normal shipping activities in the Gulf.