Iran Publishes New Map Asserting Control Over Strait of Hormuz

Iran published a new map on Wednesday asserting its control over the Strait of Hormuz. The move comes after Tehran closed the strait following U.S.-Israeli attacks that began on February 28. More than 20,000 sailors are currently on around 2,000 vessels in the Gulf. Many remain unable to leave their ships and lack adequate supplies of food and fresh water.

Sailors have described limited contact with the outside world and restricted movement between living quarters and decks. Some report receiving only one meal of rice or lentils per day. The International Transport Workers' Federation has received contact from more than 2,000 sailors seeking assistance since the closure began.

Cases include pay delays, refusals to repatriate crew members, and shortages of provisions.

The Persian Gulf Strait Authority, established by Iran, published the new map reaffirming claims to waters on either side of the strait. Ship owners must navigate a system of payments and permissions to move vessels and cargo. Gulf states have facilitated resupply operations and crew transfers.

The Saudi Ports Authority has assisted hundreds of vessels with food, water, fuel, and medicines, and helped more than 500 sailors transfer from their ships.