International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez has issued a forceful call for the protection of global maritime workers following a tragic escalation of violence in the Middle East.
The statement comes in response to a fatal attack on a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz on March 6, 2026, which resulted in the confirmed deaths of at least four seafarers and left three others with severe injuries.
Secretary-General Dominguez expressed profound concern over the deteriorating safety conditions in one of the world’s most vital shipping lanes.
“I am alarmed and deeply saddened by this deadly attack. My thoughts are with the families of those lost and the global maritime community now in mourning,” said Mr. Dominguez. “Seafarers are the backbone of global trade; they are civilians and must never be targets.”
The Secretary-General highlighted a growing humanitarian crisis in the region, noting that approximately 20,000 seafarers are currently stranded on vessels within the Persian Gulf. These crews are operating under constant threat of kinetic attacks, ship seizures, and extreme psychological duress.
The IMO has characterized the current situation as “unacceptable and unsustainable,” calling for immediate action on three fronts:
-
Humanitarian Protection: Ensuring the mental and physical well-being of crews remains the priority for all shipowners and regional authorities.
-
Adherence to International Law: Reaffirming that the freedom of navigation must be respected by all parties under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
-
Global Responsibility: Urging all stakeholders and regional powers to de-escalate tensions to prevent further loss of life.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global energy and commodity markets. However, the IMO emphasizes that the human cost is far outweighing the economic risks. The plight of the 20,000 stranded seafarers serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the men and women who keep the world’s supply chains moving.
The IMO continues to monitor the situation closely and provides updated resources for the industry:
-
Incident Tracking: A verified list of shipboard incidents in the Middle East is maintained by flag States and the IMO.
-
Support for Seafarers: Guidance on security protocols and mental health resources for crews in high-risk areas.
