, March 25 -- The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has warned of a growing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, with around 2,000 vessels and 20,000 seafarers currently stranded, highlighting the severe challenges faced by the global shipping industry.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez told Al Jazeera that crews are under immense stress, facing fatigue and shortages of essential supplies as ships remain immobilized in the strategic waterway, reports Al Jazeera.

"The longer that those ships stay there, the longer that the crews continue to suffer mentally, physically, and operationally," he said.

Dominguez also raised concerns over insurance coverage, noting that many companies have canceled contracts or imposed high premiums,...