IMO Secretary General Urges End to Attacks on Merchant Ships and Seafarers

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has issued a stern warning to member states, calling for an end to attacks on merchant ships and seafarers in conflict zones. According to the latest report from the IMO, 80 verified attacks have occurred around the Strait of Hormuz since the current conflict began on February 28, with at least 22 seafarers killed and many more injured.

Geopolitical Tensions Escalate

The Secretary-General of the IMO, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, addressed the Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers in London from September 14 to 18. He highlighted the severe impact of these attacks on global maritime trade and stressed that conflicts must not be used as a pretext for attacking merchant vessels and innocent seafarers.

Speaking at the meeting, Dominguez said: "We are reaching a point where these conflicts are being used as a pretext to attack merchant vessels and innocent seafarers. Do not use these conflicts to attack innocent seafarers." The attacks have been widespread, with incidents reported in the Strait of Hormuz, the Black Sea, and the Red Sea.

According to gCaptain, since the conflict began, the IMO has verified 80 attacks around the Strait of Hormuz. In the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, dozens of seafarers have died due to attacks on merchant ships over recent months, although precise numbers are difficult to verify. The latest incident involved the Houthi attack in the Red Sea on August 11, resulting in four deaths.

Impacts Beyond Maritime Trade

The Secretary-General emphasized that addressing the root causes of these conflicts is beyond the IMO's remit but highlighted the increasing impact on global maritime trade and shipping operations. He urged delegates to raise this issue with their governments and relevant international bodies, stating: "In the Strait of Hormuz, it is not only one country attacking merchant vessels. In the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, it is not only one country attacking merchant vessels."

Dominguez added that the attacks affect economies, supply chains, and everyday lives, noting: "When shipping operations are disrupted, the consequences extend far beyond the maritime sector." He called on member states to share these impacts with relevant bodies in their countries so they can be addressed within the United Nations framework.

Call for Technical Solutions

The IMO secretariat remains committed to contributing workable solutions at a technical and operational level. Secretary-General Dominguez concluded by saying, "It falls to you and your capitals, and relevant bodies of the United Nations, to address the root causes and find solutions." The organization is prepared to support member states in bringing forward these solutions.

What this means for operators

The calls from the IMO underscore the need for heightened security measures and increased vigilance among ship operators. Vessels transiting conflict zones, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, must be prepared for potential attacks. Operators should consider implementing robust safety protocols, including advanced surveillance systems and emergency response plans.

In addition, vessel owners and managers may need to reassess their routes and schedules, potentially opting for more secure trade corridors or diversifying supply chains to mitigate risks. Collaboration between shipping companies, port authorities, and governments will be crucial in addressing the ongoing threats and ensuring safe passage of merchant vessels.

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