ICS and ITF urge action on Gulf shipping crisis and seafarer safety

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) met Gulf State representatives to tackle the shipping crisis in the region.

The conflict has entered its fourth week. Ships have come under attack. Seafarers have died. Around 20,000 crew members remain stranded on vessels unable to transit the Strait of Hormuz.

Urgent actions to support crews

The parties agreed on practical steps to protect seafarers and keep trade moving:

• Create a reporting system via the International Maritime Organization to flag urgent resupply needs
• Recognize seafarers as key workers to enable crew changes
• Allow fast and safe medical disembarkation

These measures aim to protect crews and maintain vessel operations.

Thomas A. Kazakos, Secretary General of ICS, said: “The discussions were constructive and timely. We will work closely with Gulf partners to deliver practical solutions.”

Stephen Cotton, General Secretary of ITF, said: “Seafarers face extremely difficult conditions. They must have access to food, water, fuel and medical care. No one should be forced to stay in a conflict zone.”

Gulf States respond

Gulf States confirmed they will support stranded ships with logistics and facilitate crew changes. They may also apply exceptional measures, similar to those used during COVID-19, for expired contracts and certificates.

They will work with the International Maritime Organization to establish a safe corridor. The goal is to protect seafarers and restore navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

The meeting shows growing coordination to manage one of the most serious disruptions in global shipping.

Efforts are also underway, in coordination with the International Maritime Organization, to establish a safe maritime corridor, ensuring the protection of seafarers and the eventual resumption of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

The meeting highlights growing international coordination to address one of the most serious maritime disruptions in recent years.

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