Suspension of Project Freedom is a ‘surprise’ and ‘challenge,’ shipping group says
One of the world’s largest shipping groups said Tuesday that the temporary pause of Project Freedom in the Strait of Hormuz is a “surprise” and “challenge.”
The Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO), which describes itself as the “world’s largest international shipping association, with over 2,000 members in 130 countries,” said in a statement that “Our members report that crews are coping mentally and practically with the situation.”
“The suspension of ‘Project Freedom’ shortly after its launch is a surprise,” BIMCO said.
“While a few ships made it out safely while ‘Project Freedom’ was in place, it was clear that transits without coordination with Iran entailed significant risk,” it added. “Changes announced at short notice or changes that are surprising, such as the sudden suspension of ‘Project Freedom,’ are a challenge for shipowners attempting to assess the risks and planning for leaving the Persian Gulf.”
BIMCO noted that “Shipowners are still able to buy provisions and fuel locally, although at elevated prices.”
Read the full article here