IMO chief condemns renewed attacks on shipping in Red Sea
Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez called the latest strikes indefensible and renewed his appeal for the release of seafarers still held captive in the region
International Maritime Organization Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has condemned renewed attacks on ships in the Red Sea, describing the latest reported incidents as indefensible and warning that they endanger seafarers while threatening the security of international shipping, the marine environment and the stability of global supply chains. Dominguez called on ship operators to carry out thorough risk assessments before transiting the region, stressing that seafarers are civilians performing essential work who must never be placed in harm's way.
The IMO chief renewed his call for the immediate and unconditional release of all seafarers still held captive following earlier piracy attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden region, describing their safety as a fundamental obligation under international law and a shared responsibility of the global community. He warned that continued attacks could further disrupt commercial routes, escalate regional tensions and undermine freedom of navigation through a corridor that remains critical for international trade.
Dominguez also raised concerns about the potential for pollution resulting from the latest incidents in the Red Sea, alongside earlier incidents in the Strait of Hormuz area, pointing to the environmental risks that accompany attacks on laden tankers and other commercial vessels operating in both waterways. He said de-escalation remains the only real solution to the current wave of instability affecting shipping across the wider region.
The IMO said it will continue monitoring the situation closely and remains ready to provide assistance where necessary, though the organisation's role is largely limited to advocacy, coordination and technical support rather than direct intervention in the underlying conflicts driving the attacks. Dominguez's comments add to a growing chorus of concern from international bodies as disruption to Red Sea and Gulf shipping routes continues to affect global trade.
With attacks continuing to affect vessels transiting both the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, the IMO's renewed condemnation underscores the pressure operators face in balancing commercial obligations against the safety of their crews, at a time when insurers, charterers and flag states are all reassessing the risks associated with operating through the region's most contested waterways.
