IMO Warns Red Sea Shipping Attacks Threaten Global Maritime Security, Supply Chains and Freedom of Navigation
The Red Sea shipping attacks have triggered fresh concerns over maritime security, international shipping, and the resilience of the global supply chain, with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) issuing a strong condemnation of the latest incidents. The attacks pose increasing risks to commercial vessels, seafarers, global logistics, and one of the world’s most strategically important maritime trade routes.
Highlighting the growing impact on the shipping industry, commercial shipping, and freedom of navigation, IMO warned that continued attacks in the Red Sea could disrupt global shipping routes, increase ocean freight risks, and expose the marine environment to potential pollution. The organization stressed that protecting seafarer safety and maintaining secure international trade remain top priorities.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said he “unequivocally condemns” the latest reported attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea, describing them as indefensible acts that endanger the lives of seafarers while threatening maritime security, environmental protection, and the stability of global supply chains.
He emphasized that seafarers are civilians performing essential work that keeps international commerce moving and supports economies around the world. Dominguez urged ship operators to conduct comprehensive risk assessments before transiting the region, stating that no seafarer should be placed in danger or targeted during periods of conflict and instability.
The IMO chief also renewed his call for the immediate and unconditional release of all seafarers still being held captive following piracy incidents in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. He noted that safeguarding their lives is a legal obligation under international law and a shared responsibility of the global maritime community.
Describing the Red Sea as a vital artery for international commerce, Dominguez warned that persistent attacks on merchant shipping could escalate regional tensions, disrupt commercial trade routes, and undermine the internationally recognized principle of freedom of navigation that underpins global maritime trade.
The Secretary-General further expressed concern over the risk of marine pollution arising from recent incidents in the Red Sea and previous maritime events in the Strait of Hormuz. Environmental damage from shipping-related attacks could have lasting consequences for sensitive marine ecosystems and coastal communities.
Reiterating the IMO’s position, Dominguez said de-escalation remains the only viable path forward, adding that the organization will continue monitoring developments closely and stands ready to support international efforts aimed at protecting maritime safety, environmental security, and uninterrupted global shipping.
Related:
- IMO Council Reaffirms Freedom of Navigation, Condemns Strait of Hormuz Attacks and Strengthens Global Maritime Safety Measures
- IMO Chief Condemns Strait of Hormuz Ship Attacks, Urges Immediate De-Escalation to Protect Global Shipping
- IMO Suspends Strait of Hormuz Evacuation Plan after Vessel Attack in Gulf of Oman
- IMO Launches Major Seafarer Evacuation Operation in Strait of Hormuz Following US-Iran Peace Agreement
