Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), has issued an urgent appeal to the international community to prioritize diplomatic solutions and humanitarian corridors for the approximately 20,000 seafarers currently trapped amidst escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf.
Speaking at a high-level virtual summit hosted by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), Mr. Dominguez addressed Foreign Ministers from over 40 nations regarding the deteriorating security situation in the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that the safety of civilian crews must be treated as a global humanitarian priority, distinct from military objectives.
“Fragmented responses are no longer sufficient to resolve this crisis,” stated Secretary-General Dominguez. “What is urgently required is diplomatic engagement, practical and neutral solutions, and coordinated international action. We are advancing a maritime evacuation framework built on coastal State cooperation to release stranded vessels and prevent an environmental disaster.”
Since the onset of the conflict on 28 February 2026, the maritime industry has faced unprecedented risks:
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21 confirmed attacks on commercial shipping.
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10 seafarers deceased and numerous others severely injured.
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20,000 crew members facing acute fatigue, psychological trauma, and dwindling essential supplies.
Following an extraordinary session of the IMO Council in mid-March, the organization has implemented a multi-pillar framework to address the crisis:
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Evacuation Framework: Developing a “Safe Passage” protocol in coordination with relevant States to allow for the safe extraction of stranded crews.
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Coastal State Cooperation: Engaging regional partners to secure vital supply lines and facilitate immediate humanitarian access to vessels.
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Centralized Information Hub: Maintaining a dedicated online portal for verified data on ship attacks, industry guidance, and support resources for affected seafarers.
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Industry Mobilization: Coordinating directly with global bodies including BIMCO, ICS, ITF, and INTERTANKO to ensure a unified maritime front.
To bolster these efforts, the IMO has joined a newly established UN Task Force on the Strait of Hormuz. Led by Under-Secretary-General Jorge Moreira da Silva (UNOPS), the task force brings together technical expertise from UNCTAD, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and the IMO to design mechanisms specifically for humanitarian relief and the protection of global trade routes.
The IMO continues to advocate for de-escalation, urging all parties to respect international law and the fundamental freedom of navigation.
