As Donald Trump launches a new plan to secure passage through the Strait of Hormuz, thousands of seafarers stranded since the start of the war remain skeptical. Around 20,000 seafarers are trapped on 2,000 ships across the Persian Gulf, with missiles continuing to threaten the crucial waterway through which 20% of the world's oil and natural gas supply passes.
Captain's Account
Captain Raman Kapoor and his 23 crew members are now six months into what was meant to be a four-month trip. 'It's been a lot of missile watch and table tennis,' he said. 'We all miss our families. The first thing I will do when I get back to India is hug my wife, kids and parents.' His ship, transporting crude oil, was returning to India when violence erupted. The ship was near the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran sealed off, causing fuel prices to soar.
Living Under Threat
Neighboring ships have been hit by drones and debris, creating a tense atmosphere. A new rota for round-the-clock missile watches has been established, alongside increased cleaning duties while awaiting permission to sail. 'We just don't want people to isolate themselves,' Kapoor said. 'That's when morale really hits rock bottom, and that is my priority.' Evenings are spent playing table tennis and eating from recently replenished stock delivered by smaller boats.
Skepticism Toward Project Freedom
Little hope exists that Trump's Project Freedom, which involves the US 'guiding' stuck ships, will make a difference. Seafarers have heard repeated promises from both Iran and the US that the Strait will reopen for safe passage. Kapoor noted, 'Nothing ever stays for long with Trump. There are ceasefires, and then there are no ceasefires. Iran lets us in, then they change their mind.'
The International Transport Workers' Federation shares this skepticism. General Secretary Stephen Cotton stated, 'At the moment, there is little clarity on how Project Freedom will provide safe evacuation, nor assurance from Iran that transit will be guaranteed. Until we have those assurances, we are calling on shipowners and flag states not to treat this announcement as a green light. These workers have already endured weeks of fear, uncertainty and hardship. They must not now be put in harm's way.'
