Following a resurgence of violent incidents targeting merchant vessels in the Red Sea, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has called for urgent diplomatic engagement to restore maritime safety and uphold international law.
Renewed Violence Disrupts Red Sea Calm
In early July, two separate attacks on commercial vessels resulted in multiple casualties and injuries, with one incident leading to the safe rescue of all crew members. The Secretary-General described the assaults as a grave violation of international law and emphasized their devastating consequences for both innocent seafarers and regional communities, including environmental harm.
A Call for Constructive Dialogue
Addressing the 134th session of the IMO Council in London, Dominguez urged Member States to intensify diplomatic efforts to address escalating geopolitical tensions impacting global shipping.
Several Member States expressed solidarity with affected seafarers and echoed the call for international cooperation and conflict resolution.
Security Situation Worsens After Period of Calm
According to IMO and flag State data, at least 69 maritime attacks were reported in the region between November 2023 and October 2024. The recent incidents are the first recorded since October, breaking several months of relative calm in the Red Sea and reigniting concern over the freedom of navigation in a critical global trade corridor.
IMO Council Session Focuses on Stability and Strategy
The IMO Council’s 134th session is currently underway, reviewing the organization’s budget, strategic direction, and administrative policies. Maritime security has become a renewed focal point in light of these events, with leadership reaffirming the IMO’s commitment to collaboration, diplomacy, and the protection of seafarers worldwide.
The IMO’s response to the renewed Red Sea attacks underscores the pressing need for international cooperation and diplomatic resolution. With maritime safety once again under threat, the call for collective action and policy alignment has taken on new urgency in ensuring the protection of lives and global trade routes.
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Source: IMO
