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1500 ships trapped in Gulf as Iran blockade tightens reports IMO warning
International
Published on 8 May 2026
20,000 crew members are stuck in the chokepoint
The International Maritime Organization says around 1,500 ships carrying about 20,000 crew are trapped in the Gulf after an Iranian blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. The IMO chief described the situation as dire for “innocent sailors” and urged shipping to avoid the region, warning that continued disruptions could worsen casualties and economic losses.
- IMO estimates roughly 1,500 ships are trapped in the Gulf
- About 20,000 crew members are affected by the Strait of Hormuz blockade
- The IMO chief urged vessels to avoid the region to reduce risk
- Shipping disruption could drive further casualties and economic damage
Read the full story at The Economic Times
This summarization was done by Beige for a story published on 
The Economic Times