The United Nations has called for the immediate evacuation and repatriation of approximately 6,000 seafarers stranded aboard hundreds of commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that the situation is rapidly developing into a humanitarian and human rights crisis.

Speaking in Geneva on Friday, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, through his spokesperson Shabia Mantoo, urged all parties involved in the ongoing Middle East conflict, as well as governments, shipowners, and maritime stakeholders, to take urgent measures to ensure the safety and welfare of stranded crews.

According to estimates from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), at least 6,000 seafarers remain trapped on hundreds of vessels in the strategically vital waterway. Although a ceasefire is currently in place, many crews have been unable to safely leave their ships or return home.

"Parties to the conflict should urgently work to facilitate safe passage for stranded seafarers to safely evacuate and disembark, as well as ensure the delivery of critical supplies," Mantoo told reporters.

She emphasized that civilian vessels are protected under international humanitarian law, stating that attacks against them are unlawful.

"Attacks against civilian vessels are unacceptable and must stop. They are protected under international humanitarian law," she said.

The UN High Commissioner also called on governments to provide consular assistance, humanitarian support, and logistical arrangements to facilitate the evacuation and repatriation of affected seafarers.

The appeal comes amid renewed instability in one of the world's most important maritime trade routes. Earlier on Friday, the United States launched another round of strikes against Iran following attacks by Tehran-backed Houthi rebels on oil tankers in the Red Sea. The escalation pushed global crude oil prices above $100 per barrel, heightening concerns over energy supplies and international shipping.

Despite the increased military activity, U.S. officials have maintained that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to commercial transit. However, concerns continue to grow over Iran's reported targeting of merchant vessels in an apparent effort to pressure ships into paying for safe passage through the strategic waterway.