The United Nations has urged Gulf countries to help evacuate and repatriate about 6,000 seafarers stranded across the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf.
The seafarers have remained aboard hundreds of ships since the conflict involving the United States and Iran began on 28 February 2026, following attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called on governments, shipowners, operators and other maritime stakeholders to coordinate efforts to bring the affected crews to safety.
Türk said the seafarers were facing a serious humanitarian crisis and worsening mental health as they remained exposed to the threat of missile and drone attacks.
UN officials said attacks on commercial vessels were unacceptable and should stop. They also stressed that seafarers are protected under international humanitarian law.
Seventeen seafarers were reported to have died in attacks in the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began.
The UN human rights office also said some shipowners had abandoned crew members at sea without food, water or other essential supplies.
At least 93 seafarers aboard nine vessels had reportedly been left without wages or other forms of support. Non-profit organisations working for seafarer welfare were providing basic supplies and essential items.
Many seafarers had also been unable to contact their families and friends, causing distress both onboard and ashore.
The International Maritime Organization said approximately 6,000 seafarers remained stranded aboard hundreds of vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
The crews were not evacuated during a brief ceasefire. The ceasefire later ended, and attacks resumed in the region.
The UN appeal called for coordinated action by Gulf governments and maritime stakeholders to secure the evacuation and repatriation of the stranded seafarers.
