Published on: 2026-07-14
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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July 13, 2026 Peace and Security
The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, issued a statement condemning the recent attacks on civilian merchant vessels in the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea.
“While recent events have focused the international community’s attention on the situation in and around the Strait of Hormuz, we must not lose sight of the fact that seafarers continue to face serious threats in other parts of the world,” he said.
Dominguez condemned all unjustified attacks on civilian commercial vessels caused by geopolitical conflicts, wherever they may occur. According to him, such acts endanger sailors, threaten maritime safety, disrupt global supply chains, and undermine the principles on which international shipping is built.
“Seafarers should never become victims of conflicts in which they are not participants. Every seafarer, wherever they serve, deserves to work in safe conditions,” emphasized the head of IMO.
IMO Council: Attacks in the Strait of Hormuz
Meanwhile, the Council of the International Maritime Organization, following its 137th session, once again reaffirmed the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation in accordance with international law. The Council condemned attacks on civilian commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz area and called for de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East.
In the resolution adopted at the session, the Council emphasized that the right of transit passage through straits used for international navigation must not be subjected to threats, restrictions, refusals, difficulties, violations, or suspension. The IMO’s executive body also reminded that any measures taken by coastal states to regulate vessel traffic on vital sea routes must comply with the agency’s standards according to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).
Regarding the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, the Council stated that any agreements between the coastal states of the region must guarantee the non-discriminatory and unimpeded right of transit passage of all vessels through the internationally recognized traffic separation scheme adopted by IMO in 1968. The Council also confirmed that passage through the strait should remain free from any tolls and charges in accordance with international law, including the IMO Convention.
The Council instructed the IMO Secretary-General to explore options for ensuring safe maritime communication and to engage with coastal states, other member states, and the industry for coordinated and sustainable restoration of uninterrupted shipping through the strait.
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