Maritime industry groups have cautiously welcomed a tentative agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending months of conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.
The deal is expected to allow stranded vessels and crews to begin moving again after weeks of disruption in one of the world’s most important oil and gas transit corridors.
US President Donald Trump said the strait would reopen on Friday, adding that Iran would remove its “toll booth” system while the US ends its naval blockade of Iranian ports.
The International Chamber of Shipping said the announcement is a relief for maritime workers caught in the crisis, though it warned that safe evacuation will take time.
The Forward Seamen’s Union of India also welcomed the development, saying many Indian sailors remain stranded and are eager to return home.
The International Maritime Organization said preparations are underway to assist in evacuating crew members, but stressed that safety and security procedures must be completed first.
Shipping groups estimate that around 20,000 seafarers and about 500 vessels have been affected by the disruption in the waterway.
Experts say that even if the agreement holds, confidence in the route will take time to recover and will depend on sustained stability in the region.
