The ITF voiced its concern this week to the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG) regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman and Israeli ports and asked that these areas be designated as Warlike Operations Areas (WOA). The move would give seafarers the right to refuse to enter these zones and to be repatriated safely and without penalty.
“Seafarers are being asked to operate in one of the most unstable and militarised regions,” said David Heindel, Chair of ITF Seafarers’ Section. “Our goal is simple: to ensure they are informed of the risks, supported with appropriate protections, and have the right to protect themselves.”
“There is an undeniable increase in military activity,” Heindel added. “The Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz have seen a steady build-up of naval forces from multiple countries. Drone strikes, vessel seizures, and armed encounters involving commercial shipping are no longer isolated events – they
Content Original Link:
" target="_blank">
