The head of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has confirmed he is actively engaging with relevant stakeholders to put in place a safe transit mechanism for vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, following a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran.
According to Ship & Bunker, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez issued a statement on Wednesday welcoming the development: “For the health and well-being of seafarers and the global shipping industry, I welcome the ceasefire announced in the Middle East.”
Moving Toward a Transit Framework
The ceasefire — announced by US President Donald Trump on Tuesday — is described as a two-week agreement that includes the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic.
Dominguez confirmed that efforts are already underway to formalise arrangements for safe passage through the waterway. “I am already working with the relevant parties to implement an appropriate mechanism to ensure the safe transit of ships through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said, as reported by Ship & Bunker. He further stated that “the priority now is to ensure an evacuation that guarantees the safety of navigation.”
Shipping Industry Groups Also Respond
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) echoed the welcome, calling for immediate and coordinated action to restore safe vessel movements through the strait.
Thomas A. Kazakos, Secretary General of ICS, said in a statement: “We welcome the conditional ceasefire between the United States and Iran and hope this signals a beginning of a return to stability in the region.”
Ship & Bunker reports that ICS has urged swift, coordinated efforts to resume normal shipping operations through the Strait of Hormuz.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
