The ongoing conflict involving the US and Iran continues to severely disrupt shipping through the Persian Gulf, with around 150 cargo vessels understood to remain stranded in the region.

Around half of those ships have reportedly been unable to leave for approximately five months, while many others have remained trapped since the June 17 Memorandum of Understanding temporarily allowed movements through the Strait of Hormuz.

For the crews involved, the disruption has developed into a prolonged safety and welfare issue.

Seafarers have faced the threat of missile and drone attacks, while satellite navigation interference has disrupted GPS systems and made already difficult transits even more hazardous. Some vessels have reportedly navigated the Strait at night under reduced lighting, while ships have also received warnings and instructions from Iranian forces operating in the area.

Months spent aboard vessels have created additional pressures. Access to fresh water, food and protective equipment has become more difficult in some cases, while arranging crew changes and repatriation has also been complicated by the security situation.

The psychological impact has become an increasing concern too, with crews facing extended periods away from their families and continuing uncertainty over when they may be able to leave the region.

The International Maritime Organization reported in July that approximately 6,000 seafarers remained aboard hundreds of vessels trapped across the Gulf, highlighting the scale of the human impact.

While attention naturally focuses on disrupted shipping routes and delayed cargo, the continuing crisis is also serving as a stark reminder that seafarers remain on the frontline whenever geopolitical instability affects global trade.