Shipping and Workers Groups Urge Gulf States to Protect Seafarers

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Tuesday March 31, 2026

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) have urged Gulf States to act to support seafarers and shipping.

The call follows talks with Gulf representatives as the Iran war disrupts transits through the Strait of Hormuz, leaving around 20,000 seafarers stranded, ICS and ITF said in a joint email statement on Tuesday.

Discussions centred on immediate, practical steps to address both operational and welfare challenges.

Proposals included establishing a reporting mechanism through the IMO to flag urgent resupply needs, recognising seafarers as key workers, and enabling medical disembarkation where required.

“Seafarers are on the frontline of this conflict, and right now too many are facing extremely difficult conditions,” Stephen Cotton, General Secretary of ITF, said.

“Discussions with our partners in the Gulf States at this meeting were constructive and timely,” Thomas A. Kazakos, Secretary General of ICS, said.

Gulf representatives indicated that logistical support would be implemented across GCC states for vessels unable to leave the region, and that crew changes should proceed without difficulty.

They also signalled that exceptional measures, similar to those adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, could be used where crew contracts or certifications expire.

Efforts are also underway with the IMO to establish a safe maritime corridor to facilitate vessel evacuation, ensure crew safety and support the resumption of navigation through the Strait.

Ship & Bunker News Team
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