At least four
seafarers were reportedly killed and three severely injured during an attack on
a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz on 6 March.
The incident
follows earlier
reports of two seafarers killed and another missing in separate incidents in the region.
Commenting on the attack, Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the
International Maritime Organization (IMO), said: “My thoughts are with
the families and loved ones of those affected, as well as the global maritime
community mourning these losses. Around 20,000 seafarers remain stranded in the
Persian Gulf, on board ships under heightened risk and considerable mental
strain.
“This is unacceptable and unsustainable. All
parties and stakeholders have an obligation to take necessary measures to
ensure the protection of seafarers, including their rights and well-being, and
the freedom of navigation, in accordance with international law.”
As security risks
escalate, major container lines are also adjusting their operations. COSCO SHIPPING LINES and CMA CGM Group said they are closely monitoring
developments in the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Middle East as rising
regional tensions continue to disrupt maritime traffic.