The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) cautioned against vessels attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz without adequate security assurances. Arsenio Dominguez expressed worry over reports of vessels risking transit without reliable security guarantees, highlighting the peril faced by seafarers. Dominguez stressed the need for seafarers’ safety, citing recent incidents of casualties, injuries, and detentions in the volatile region.
Dominguez emphasized that ship masters and shipping companies hold the ultimate responsibility for voyage planning and risk assessment. He stated that no commercial or operational motive justifies endangering seafarers’ lives to such dangerous levels. The protection of seafarers’ lives should always be the top priority, according to the IMO chief. He urged all stakeholders to act responsibly and avoid actions that could jeopardize civilian seafarers.
As of June 9, IMO data revealed 42 confirmed maritime incidents since the conflict outbreak in late February, resulting in 11 seafarer fatalities. The US military recently downed two Iranian drones in the Strait of Hormuz, citing threats to international maritime traffic. Earlier, US forces intercepted ballistic missiles and drones launched by Iran towards the Strait of Hormuz and neighboring Gulf states.
