The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has condemned a fatal attack on the cargo ship TIHAMAH off the coast of Al Mokha, Yemen, following confirmation that several seafarers were killed.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez described the incident as another attack on international shipping and expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
Dominguez said: “It is with sadness and regret to know that, once again, innocent seafarers have lost their lives in an indefensible attack on international shipping. I offer my deepest condolences to the families of those involved.
“It is particularly troublesome that the most recent attack has taken place in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden area.”
The TIHAMAH was struck by a projectile off Al Mokha, according to the IMO statement. The organisation confirmed several seafarer fatalities but provided no further details on the number of casualties or the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The attack has prompted a renewed warning from the IMO for shipping companies operating in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden region.
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Dominguez called on shipowners and operators to carefully assess the risks associated with voyages through affected waters and follow relevant best management practices.
He said: “I reiterate my call for shipowners and ship operators to thoroughly assess risks before transiting this and other regions and follow appropriate best management practices. Seafarers deserve to be protected and allowed to do their jobs in safety and security.
“These continued attacks on shipping only serve to escalate tensions and threaten global supply chains on which everyone depends.”
The Secretary-General also repeated calls for the release of seafarers who remain in captivity following piracy incidents in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
“I also urge the immediate and unconditional release of all seafarers who continue to be held captive following piracy attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden region.
“Ensuring seafarer safety is a fundamental obligation under international law and a shared responsibility of the global community.”
The latest statement follows previous warnings from the IMO over security conditions affecting commercial shipping in the region.
On 24 July, MIS reported that Dominguez had condemned renewed attacks on Red Sea shipping, warning of risks to seafarers, international shipping and global supply chains.
