IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has condemned a fresh wave of attacks on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
He warned that seafarers are being placed in “grave danger” as a result of the region’s deteriorating security situation.
In a statement, Dominguez said: “I regret that once again I am compelled to speak out following attacks on commercial ships and innocent seafarers, due to geopolitical circumstances beyond their control. I condemn the attacks over the past two days against several ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz. These reckless attacks have again placed innocent seafarers in grave danger. No seafarer should have to risk their life simply for doing their job.”
He urged flag states, shipowners, ship operators and relevant authorities to avoid exposing crews to unnecessary risk while the safety and security of transits through the Strait cannot be guaranteed.
“As long as the safety and security of crews cannot be assured, I urge flag States, shipowners, ship operators and all relevant authorities to avoid exposing seafarers to unnecessary danger by transiting the Strait,” he said.
READ: IMO condemns deadly attack near Strait of Hormuz
Dominguez noted that the latest attacks have compounded the strain already facing nearly 6,000 seafarers stranded aboard vessels unable to leave the Persian Gulf safely since the crisis began.
“The situation in the region remains volatile. These attacks further intensify the fear, uncertainty and psychological strain already being endured by the nearly 6,000 seafarers who remain stranded on board vessels unable to depart the Persian Gulf safely,” he said.
He called on all states involved to exercise restraint and work towards a swift de-escalation.
“I call on all States concerned to exercise maximum restraint, de-escalate the situation without delay, and facilitate the safe departure of the ships still trapped in the Gulf since the crisis began. The safety of seafarers must remain our foremost priority,” he added.
For more information:
International Maritime Organization – https://www.imo.org/en
