Merchant vessels navigating the tense waters near the Strait of Hormuz have begun broadcasting unconventional radio messages in a bid to prevent attacks amid heightened regional tensions, reports Reuters.
The messages, relayed over maritime VHF channels, are part of an evolving strategy by crews to signal neutrality and avoid misidentification in one of the world’s most sensitive maritime corridors.
Ships Turn to Words for Defense
Recordings reveal that crews are announcing their commercial status with statements like “We are unarmed” and “We are not affiliated with any government,” hoping to deter potential aggression or boarding attempts. These messages are often repeated in both English and Arabic to ensure clarity across the multinational spectrum of naval and paramilitary forces patrolling the region.
This new pattern of communication reflects growing anxiety in the shipping community following a string of incidents linked to regional conflict and retaliatory threats. While not yet standard protocol, the adoption of such messages appears to be spreading, especially among vessels passing through chokepoints known for their strategic vulnerability.
The Strait of Hormuz, which handles a significant portion of global oil and gas shipments, has long been a flashpoint for geopolitical friction. Escalating hostilities in the surrounding region have revived concerns about the safety of commercial shipping, prompting enhanced coordination among naval escorts, maritime security firms, and shipping operators.
Maritime analysts suggest that these improvised broadcasts underscore the limitations of current protection frameworks. “In an environment where threats are often ambiguous, the simplest tool—clear communication—can sometimes be the most effective,” one observer noted.
Although such broadcasts do not guarantee safety, they are seen as a proactive step by crews operating in high-risk waters. With tensions continuing to simmer, the maritime industry is bracing for further uncertainty and is urging governments to reinforce international navigation rights while avoiding escalation in contested waters.
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Source: Reuters
