Industry associations and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) have issued statements following attacks on merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting seafarer welfare and urging shipping companies to exercise heightened caution.
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the European Shipowners’ Association (ESCA), and the Asian Shipowners’ Association stressed that protecting the safety of crews and civilians is the highest priority.
“All stakeholders must take every necessary step to ensure the safety of seafarers, who are carrying out their duties and have been placed in a volatile situation beyond their control,” the statement said.
The groups also advised operators to rely solely on verified information and adhere to established Best Management Practices (BMP) for maritime security.
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IMO Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, echoed these concerns: “I am deeply troubled by reports of injuries to seafarers during attacks on merchant vessels.
“No assault on innocent crews or civilian shipping is ever justified. These personnel are performing their jobs and must be shielded from the effects of wider geopolitical tensions.”
Dominguez reaffirmed the principle of freedom of navigation under international law and recommended that shipping companies exercise maximum caution, avoiding the affected area where possible.
He further urged operators to remain alert to disinformation and to make decisions based on verified sources.
Both the IMO and industry groups emphasised that crew safety remains paramount and that the situation is fluid, requiring continuous monitoring by ship operators.
For more information:
International Maritime Organization (IMO) – https://www.imo.org/
