Statement from Thomas A. Kazakos, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping, on the announcement of a peace agreement between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran

“This announcement comes as a relief to the 20,000 seafarers who have been caught in the middle of this war. Their safe departure from the region must be a top priority but will take time. 

“With around 500 ships needing to pass through the Strait to exit the area this will require coordination.  The International Maritime Organization has a crucial role, working alongside industry and states in the region, to ensure this is done as safely and as quickly as possible.

“The fundamental principle of freedom of navigation has been sidelined during the war, and many seafarers have regrettably been injured or lost their lives. As we now hopefully move towards peace, we must see a permanent return to vessels being able to pass through the Strait of Hormuz unimpeded without paying a toll or other clearance mechanism.”