IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has condemned the latest attack on international shipping after cargo ship TIHAMAH was hit by a projectile off Al Mokha, Yemen.
“Once again, innocent seafarers have lost their lives in an indefensible attack on international shipping,” Dominguez said.
Several seafarer fatalities have been confirmed following the attack.
“It is particularly troublesome that the most recent attack has taken place in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden area,” he said.
Dominguez urged shipowners and operators to “thoroughly assess risks” before entering the region and follow appropriate best management practices.
“Seafarers deserve to be protected and allowed to do their jobs in safety and security,” he said.
The IMO chief warned that the attacks extend beyond the immediate threat to crews and ships.
“These continued attacks on shipping only serve to escalate tensions and threaten global supply chains on which everyone depends,” Dominguez said.
He also called for the “immediate and unconditional release” of seafarers who remain captive following piracy attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
“Ensuring seafarer safety is a fundamental obligation under international law and a shared responsibility of the global community,” Dominguez said.
