The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) met representatives from Gulf States to address the ongoing conflict and its direct impact on seafarers and shipping in the Gulf.
Discussions focused on urgent practical, joint initiatives aimed at supporting ships and crews currently impacted. These include:

· Introducing, as required, a reporting mechanism, via the International Maritime Organization (IMO), for ships to highlight their most immediate concerns for resupply so this can be communicated to Gulf State partners.

· Recognition of seafarers as key workers in accordance with the national law and the need to prioritise their replacement onboard ships, where necessary and in accordance with the relevant international standards, to ensure that vessels in the affected region remain sufficiently manned and operational.

· Being able to quickly and safely disembark seafarers from vessels for medical reasons, as necessary.

Please find the full press release in Annex A