IMO unveils long-awaited Hormuz evacuation plan

“After months of hardship and distress for thousands of innocent seafarers, and negative impact for the whole world, I welcome with deep satisfaction the peace agreement concluded between the United States and Iran, marking a decisive step towards restoring maritime security and bringing to an end the unacceptable attacks against civilian shipping,” said IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez. “I want to pay tribute to the fourteen innocent seafarers who tragically lost their lives during this conflict. Their dedication in service of global trade will not be forgotten.”   “We have secured the necessary safety guarantees and have thoroughly verified the conditions for safe navigation to support these operations.”   “We remain fully committed to ensuring the safety of seafarers and the continuity of global trade.”     

More specifics of what the evacuation plan involves are set out in a notice to mariners issued by the Sultanate of Oman thar notes that the safety of navigation remains the paramount consideration. given the elevated risk of collision in the current environment, a gradual and controlled evacuation of vessel traffic is required.

To mitigate these risks, says the notice, IMO has developed a phased approach based on groups of vessels with the full coordination of the Omani authorities.      “Current reports indicate that the TSS (traffic separation scheme is not safe for use at this time,” says the notice. “Based on available information from the IMO, two temporary routes may be utilized by vessels departing through the strait of hormuz: one south of the existing traffic separation scheme (TSS) and one to the north.     “Vessels included in the designated groups will be contacted individually and provided with further instructions regarding their departure by relevant parties coordinated by the IMO.   “Instructions for transit: vessels will be contacted individually and advised of their allocated transit day by the parties coordinated by IMO.”