GENEVA, July 24 - At least 6,000 sailors are stranded on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz because of the continuing attacks between the United States and Iran, the United Nations (UN) human rights office said on Friday
The German Press Agency (dpa) reported that UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk said crews on about 400 ships were stuck in the strait, which is at the centre of the conflict between Washington and Tehran.
In a media release, he called for "urgent action", as at least nine ships with 93 crew members have been effectively abandoned by their owners.
"The seafarers have been left on their ships to fend for themselves without food, water, fuel, medical care, electricity, or means to communicate with their families," the UN said.
It added that being isolated for a long time and stuck in a conflict zone could have serious consequences on their mental and physical health.
At least 17 crew members have been killed since the start of attacks by Israel and the US on Iran at the end of February.
"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," said the UN.
