Questioning whether the Strait of Hormuz is actually open as announced by Iran.
Host 1
Arsenio Dominguez
Called for caution regarding Iranian announcement of Strait opening; verification needed for full openness due to mine concerns and traffic separation scheme not being operational.
Contacted littoral states including Iran; freedom of navigation not fully restored; announcement similar to previous unverified claims.
Clarifying that the main shipping traffic pattern (TSS) was never reopened.
Host 2
Arsenio Dominguez
Confirmed TSS not reopened with ongoing mine concerns; UK and France leading verification and mine-clearing efforts post-conflict.
Priority is safe transit without endangering seafarers' lives.
Asking about US military blockade impact on traffic flow and whether US will remove it.
Host 1
Arsenio Dominguez
No official US confirmation on blockade changes; US focus is Iranian port traffic while IMO focuses on Strait transit verification and safety.
Developed evacuation plan with industry, seafarer organizations, and flag states.
Asking about IRGC fastboat incidents involving tankers and British ship.
Host 2
Arsenio Dominguez
Information fluid; at least one vessel approached and fired upon with no damage or casualties; verification ongoing due to vessels turning off AIS systems.
Companies and ship owners remain cautious; verification takes time due to security measures.
Asking about seafarer numbers and how many have been able to leave vessels during conflict.
Host 1
Arsenio Dominguez
Only handful of seafarers have transited; 8-10 vessels used Iranian corridor at any time; still approximately 20,000 seafarers stranded.
Even one stranded seafarer is unacceptable; more data expected next week.