Many across the maritime industry remain deeply concerned about the ongoing challenges facing seafarers transiting or stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. While SCI is a U.S.-based organization, our mission compels us to stay connected with seafarer welfare organizations around the world, monitoring conditions and supporting mariners wherever they serve.

According to Phil Schifflin, Director of SCI’s Center for Mariner Advocacy, and Mark Nestlehutt, SCI’s President and Executive Director, there are relatively few organizations operating in the region that provide direct chaplaincy and welfare support to seafarers, let alone in an area facing heightened threats of violence and attack. At present, much of the pastoral care and crisis support available to seafarers in the region is being delivered remotely.

Through Phil Schifflin’s involvement with international maritime welfare and industry organizations, SCI remains connected in ongoing discussions regarding the situation. Phil participates in international coordination calls convened by organizations including the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and the Joint Maritime Information Center. In these forums, as SCI’s representative, he joins other seafarer welfare organizations in helping to monitor developments and assess the impact on seafarers in the region.

While SCI does not currently provide direct services in the Strait of Hormuz, we are actively involved in the conversations surrounding seafarer welfare and remain informed about conditions on the ground. Closer to home, our chaplaincy team in Port Newark stands ready to support mariners who are returning from, or preparing to enter, the region and who may be experiencing stress, anxiety, or trauma related to those experiences.

Reports indicate that some vessels continue to transit the area successfully. However, many seafarers remain aboard ships in the region, awaiting safe passage or relief from duty as contract extensions and operational delays continue amid ongoing uncertainty. SCI holds these mariners in our thoughts and prayers. We remain committed to supporting seafarers wherever and whenever we are called to serve.