Pakistan, July 24 -- The United Nations has called for the urgent evacuation and repatriation of about 6,000 sailors stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. The appeal comes as the humanitarian situation worsens despite a ceasefire in the Middle East conflict.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk urged countries involved in the conflict to facilitate the safe evacuation of affected seafarers. His spokeswoman, Shabia Mantoo, said thousands of sailors are facing a severe humanitarian and human rights crisis.

Read more: Iran says Strait of Hormuz remains closed amid tensions

According to the International Maritime Organization, at least 6,000 seafarers remain stranded aboard hundreds of vessels in the strategic waterway. Many have ...