Published on: 2026-07-24
Source: United Nations
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July 24, 2026 Peace and Security
Several international organizations warned on Friday about the rapidly deteriorating situation in the Red Sea, the Strait of Hormuz, and adjacent areas. In particular, representatives of the UN and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) stated that the resumption of attacks on commercial shipping threatens the lives of sailors, global trade, and regional stability, as well as increasing the risk of humanitarian and environmental consequences.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez strongly condemned the recent attacks in the Red Sea, calling them “unjustified.” According to him, the attacks disrupt global supply chains, harm the marine environment, and create serious risks for international trade. Dominguez emphasized that seafarers are civilians performing vital work for the global economy and urged shipping companies to carefully assess risks before passing through dangerous areas.
The head of IMO once again demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all sailors who remain captive after attacks in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. He reminded that the Red Sea is one of the key global trade arteries, and ongoing attacks have the potential to increase regional tensions, disrupt commercial shipping, and undermine freedom of navigation. According to him, the only way out remains de-escalation, and recent incidents raise concerns due to possible environmental pollution.
The UN Secretary-General issued similar warnings. His official spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, expressed deep concern over the renewed attacks by the Houthis on commercial vessels passing through the Red Sea. The UN believes these actions could lead to further heightened tensions in the Middle East and draw Yemen into a broader regional conflict. The organization called for immediate de-escalation and demanded the cessation of attacks on commercial ships in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2722 and other international documents guaranteeing freedom of navigation in the Bab el-Mandeb strait area.
The threat of further destabilization of Yemen
The UN Special Envoy for Yemen on Friday expressed concern over the resumption of attacks by the Houthi movement “Ansar Allah” on commercial vessels and new disruptions in maritime traffic. Hans Grundberg noted that the main task remains to preserve the achievements of the 2022 ceasefire, prevent a return to large-scale armed conflict, and create conditions for an inclusive political process. In his assessment, further escalation could worsen the crisis in Yemen, destabilize the entire region, and lead to new suffering for the civilian population. The envoy called on all parties to intensify negotiations for a comprehensive political settlement.
The UN reports that at least 17 sailors have died since the beginning of the current escalation of the conflict. The organization condemned attacks on civilian vessels and called on governments and shipowners to ensure the safe evacuation and repatriation of crews, provide sailors with all necessary supplies, and respect their rights, including the right to safe working conditions and the ability to refuse dangerous tasks.
Call for an independent investigation
UN experts stated on Friday about serious violations of international law related to the “illegal” military operations of the US and Israel on the territory of Iran since February 28, 2026, as well as Iran’s retaliatory strikes on targets in Persian Gulf countries. They reminded that the prohibition of the threat or use of force is one of the fundamental principles of international law and called for an independent investigation into reports of casualties among civilians and damage to civilian infrastructure.
Against this background, the International Maritime Organization stated that it will continue to closely monitor developments and provide assistance to interested parties if necessary. Representatives of the UN and the IMO agree that without urgent de-escalation, the situation could lead to further disruptions in international shipping, an exacerbation of the humanitarian crisis, and new risks to the global economy and security.
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