The International Maritime Organization opened a two-day extraordinary council meeting in London on Wednesday to address risks to shipping and seafarers linked to the crisis around the Strait of Hormuz.
IMO leaders and outside maritime experts have warned naval escorts do not guarantee safe passage through the strait, even as political leaders debate convoy strategies and military coverage.
Transit data shows limited movement still occurs through the corridor. The Associated Press reported about 90 ships, including 16 oil tankers, crossed between March 1 and 15, while Iran continued exporting large volumes of oil, often through “dark” transits.
Diplomacy shapes access as much as security. Reuters reported a Pakistan-bound tanker crossed the strait while broadcasting location data, while separate Reuters reporting described India’s efforts to secure safe passage amid disputes tied to seized vessels.
For readers tracking economic impact, three numbers matter day to day: ships that cross, insurance rates, and spot crude prices. Each change flows toward fuel prices and freight costs. The IMO session gives the first formal international venue for those questions during this phase of the conflict.