6,000 seafarers remain stranded in Strait of Hormuz amid Gulf conflict

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, August 30, 2026

About 400 ships carrying approximately 6,000 seafarers remain stranded in the Strait of Hormuz six months into the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, severely disrupting maritime traffic. This prolonged blockage threatens global supply chains dependent on the strait, a key transit route for roughly 20% of the world’s oil, while ongoing attacks have increased risks to maritime safety.

Approximately six months after the outbreak of the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, roughly 400 ships remain stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, leaving around 6,000 seafarers unable to safely leave the region, according to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The conflict, which began on February 28, has severely disrupted maritime traffic through this crucial waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic passage through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil supplies transit. The IMO has described the strait as largely closed to maritime traffic due to ongoing security concerns stemming from the conflict. This prolonged disruption has resulted in significant challenges not only for seafarers but also for global supply chains dependent on the movement of fuel, fertilizers, and other vital commodities.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez provided details on the situation, noting that while some vessels and crews have managed to depart the Gulf, the vast majority remain stranded. He confirmed that around 6,000 seafarers aboard 400 ships have been unable to navigate safely out of the area since the conflict began. These figures represent a considerable decrease from earlier in the crisis when approximately 20,000 seafarers aboard 2,000 ships were reported to be stranded.

An IMO spokesperson emphasized the ongoing risks faced by those still in the region, highlighting the heightened danger and uncertainty under which thousands continue to live and work. The security situation has been further worsened by at least 70 verified attacks on international vessels in and around the Strait of Hormuz since February. Tragically, 19 seafarers have lost their lives in these incidents.

The entanglement of regional hostilities has thus far compounded the humanitarian and economic impacts associated with the maritime blockade. Long-term disruptions to international maritime traffic in the Gulf pose risks to global markets and economies, underscoring the broader implications of the conflict beyond the immediate geographic area.

Efforts by international organizations to monitor and mitigate the risks continue, but the situation remains precarious, with the safety of maritime personnel and the stability of vital supply routes hanging in the balance as the conflict persists.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.