The head of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) says roughly 6,000 seafarers remain stranded in the Gulf and urges steps to protect crews amid attacks affecting shipping routes. In statements reported by multiple outlets, IMO secretary general Arsenio Domingue condemns attacks over the past two days against ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz and calls for “maximum restraint and de-escalation.” He links the attacks to heightened “fear, uncertainty and psychological strain” among seafarers already unable to depart safely, and describes them as being placed in “grave danger.” Domingue urges flag states, shipowners, operators and relevant authorities to avoid exposing seafarers to unnecessary risk while safety and security cannot be assured. The comments come amid fresh US-Iran-related developments and renewed security concerns around vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime chokepoint. The IMO position emphasizes maritime safety and the immediate need to reduce danger for civilian crews rather than comment on the specific claims made in the broader conflict.