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FINWIRES

IMO Calls Interim US-Iran Deal Key Step in Restoring Hormuz Maritime Safety

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The International Maritime Organization on Monday welcomed the interim peace agreement between the US and Iran and said it was a major step towards restoring safety on the crucial Strait of Hormuz.

"This signals a crucial return to peace, dialogue, multilateralism and diplomacy, and in particular, an important step toward restoring safety in this vital maritime corridor for seafarers and ships, as well as safeguarding the fundamental principle of freedom of navigation," the IMO said in a statement.

According to the IMO, there have been at least 46 verified attacks against international shipping in and around the strait since the beginning of the conflict on Feb. 28.

The agreement allows the organization to move forward with its plans to evacuate thousands of trapped seafarers stranded in the area, in collaboration with member states and partners, the statement said.

"However, its implementation will require time to ensure that all necessary safety and security guarantees are in place," the statement added.

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