The UN’s International Maritime Organization (IMO) says an evacuation plan is underway to help seafarers leave the Persian Gulf after many ships became stranded in and around the Strait of Hormuz. The IMO says the operation targets about 11,000 seafarers on roughly 500 to 600 ships, and it involves coordination with Iran and Oman, as well as coastal states, the United States, and industry. According to reporting that cites IMO officials, the IMO starts contacting vessels to begin the evacuation, though it does not provide a timeline. Several outlets also report that ships have begun to transit the strait under the scheme in the days following the plan’s announcement. Tracking data referenced by Reuters-linked reporting indicates that at least a small number of commercial vessels—such as dry bulk and cargo ships—have already passed through Hormuz, while additional ships are preparing to do so. The start of the plan follows months of disruption attributed to the broader regional conflict and aligns with a reported ceasefire understanding between Iran and the U.S. The long-term arrangements for the sea lanes remain uncertain, including disagreements over tolling systems discussed by Iran and the U.S.