Published on: 2026-07-06
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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July 6, 2026 Peace and Security
The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, called on the international community to intensify efforts to free 44 sailors held by pirates and armed criminals off the coast of Somalia. According to him, the people have been held captive for several months, experiencing a severe shortage of food and drinking water and constantly facing the threat of violence.
Speaking at the opening of the 137th session of the IMO Council in London, Dominguez noted that sailors are being held on three hijacked vessels – MT Honour 25, Eureka, and Sward. All three ships were seized during separate attacks off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden between April and May.
“These incidents serve as a harsh reminder that the threat of piracy and armed robbery has not disappeared and still requires vigilance and coordinated international action,” said the head of the IMO. He called on states to support efforts for the swift release of the crews.
Attacks are increasing
According to IMO data, 24 pirate and armed robber attacks on ships, either carried out or prevented, were recorded in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden in just the last three months. The level of violence against sailors continues to rise, and the criminals are using increasingly dangerous weapons.
Worldwide, the number of registered cases of piracy and armed attacks at sea increased by 17 percent – from 146 incidents in 2024 to 171 in 2025.
Dominguez emphasized that the IMO will continue cooperating with the states whose flags the ships sail under, coastal countries, regional organizations, and the maritime industry to achieve the release of captured sailors and to enhance maritime safety.
He also urged shipowners and operators to take all necessary measures to protect crews and conduct thorough risk assessments before passing through dangerous areas.
Consequences of tensions in the Middle East
Dominguez also touched on the situation in the Strait of Hormuz area, noting that the recent escalation led to the deaths of sailors and impacted the global economy.
“Sailors tragically died in connection with this conflict, and its consequences are felt far beyond the region, having a real impact on global trade, energy, and food security,” he said.
At the same time, the head of the IMO expressed hope that the situation would continue to improve, that the affected crews would be able to return home safely, and that shipping in the region would soon be fully restored.
At the current session of the IMO Council, member states will consider a draft resolution on protecting vital sea routes and ensuring the freedom and safety of international navigation.
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