Seafarers' Evacuation Plan Proposed in Gulf

0:00It's March 18th. Here's what's happening around the world. A group of countries including Bahrain, Japan, Panama, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates has proposed a safe maritime corridor to help evacuate. Around 20,000 seafarers stuck in the Gulf. The plan, backed by the United States, aims to get merchant ships out safely through the strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions. Hundreds of vessels have been anchored there since Iran threatened to attack any ships trying to leave. The proposal went to the United Nations International Maritime Organization Council meeting in London, focusing on protecting crew lives during the conflict. At least seven merchant sailors have died so far because of the fighting. The IMO Secretary-General urged day escalation, saying these workers should not suffer from bigger geopolitical issues. NATO leaders are also discussing ways to assist. President Donald Trump called on other nations to help police the strait, which carries about one-fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas.

1:00Meanwhile, Iran told the IMO they are providing humanitarian aid to seafarers and ships in the area. The council meeting continues today, with hopes for a quick action to resolve the standoff and free the stranded crews. Indian in the sponsored by our partner, check out the episode description. No need to switch positions. The sound is already where your head is. S-O-L-L-I-S-O-L-P-L-O-D-C-M-A-I.