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6d ago

20,000 Seafarers Trapped Near Strait of Hormuz Face Growing Mental-Health Crisis

Welfare groups warn of severe psychological strain as crews remain stuck at anchor without a clear route to transit.

Seafarers caught up in the US-Israeli war against Iran have faced mental trauma, charities say
Image
Ships burning on the Strait of Hormuz.
Cargo ships, including bulk carriers and general cargo vessels, sit at anchor offshore as a small motorboat passes in the foreground, in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, on May 4.

Overview

  • Roughly 20,000 crew on about 1,500 ships have been confined for more than two months, with U.S. escorts reportedly paused while Iran considers proposals to end the standoff.
  • The International Maritime Organization reports at least 11 seafarers killed after drones, missiles and Iranian guards targeted vessels in dozens of incidents, including at least two seizures.
  • Charities say workers describe hypervigilance, sleeplessness and panic during strikes, and families at home report intense anxiety and grief when contact is lost.
  • Basic supplies are running short on some ships, with reports of rationed water and food, and resupply proving easier near UAE ports and harder for smaller operators that lack funds.
  • Maritime welfare groups and unions have expanded helplines and are issuing wartime mental-health guidance, and the ITF says it has fielded thousands of pleas for help and arranged some repatriations.