Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), has condemned renewed attacks on Red Sea shipping as “indefensible,” warning they threaten seafarer safety, the marine environment and global supply chains.
Dominguez said: “I unequivocally condemn the latest reported attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea area. These attacks are indefensible. They endanger the lives of seafarers, while threatening the security of international shipping, the marine environment and the stability of global supply chains.”
He stressed that seafarers should not be exposed to conflict-related risk while carrying out essential work. “Seafarers are civilians performing essential work that sustains economies and communities worldwide.
Ship operators must thoroughly assess risks before transiting the region. Seafarers must never be placed in harm’s way or targeted in situations of conflict or instability,” he said.
Dominguez also renewed calls for the release of seafarers still being held following piracy attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
“I also renew my call for 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 their safety is a fundamental obligation under international law and a shared responsibility of the global community,” he said.
READ: IMO adopts Singapore-led resolution on shipping lanes
The IMO chief described the Red Sea as a critical corridor for international trade, warning that continued attacks risk further disruption to commercial shipping routes and could undermine freedom of navigation.
“The Red Sea is a critical maritime corridor for international trade. Continued attacks on shipping in this region risk escalating tensions, further disrupting commercial routes and undermining the principle of freedom of navigation. De-escalation is the only solution,” he said.
Dominguez raised additional concern over the risk of pollution stemming from the reported incidents in the Red Sea, alongside earlier incidents in the Strait of Hormuz.
He confirmed the IMO would continue to monitor developments in both regions.
“I am equally concerned about the potential pollution from these reported incidents in the Red Sea and previous incidents in the Strait of Hormuz area. IMO will continue to monitor the situation and stands ready to assist as necessary,” he said.
For more information:
International Maritime Organization – https://www.imo.org/
