Why It Matters
International shipping remains exposed near the Strait of Hormuz, where about 6,000 seafarers are still trapped and 24 ships were attacked over roughly two weeks.
What Happened
Arsenio Dominguez, the International Maritime Organization’s secretary-general, warned vessels against using the Strait of Hormuz until safety guarantees are provided. He described conditions for commercial shipping as severe and said seafarers are not trained for combat.
“The situation continues to be severe and critical when it comes to international shipping,” Dominguez said.
The IMO had recorded 100 confirmed maritime incidents across the region through Oct. 9. Twenty-four seafarers had been killed since the conflict began Feb. 28.
Iran submitted a complaint to the IMO through Seyed Ali Mousavi and Iran’s ambassador to the organization. Iran alleged that U.S. military forces used VHF Channel 16 to intimidate Iranian crews and asked the IMO to raise those allegations with member states and relevant international organizations, including the International Telecommunication Union.
U.S. Central Command said the naval blockade had been in place for months and that vessels refusing to comply received multiple warnings.
“Seafarers are not trained for combat, and they are not guilty of any conflicts that are happening around the world,” Dominguez said.
By the Numbers
6,000 — seafarers remaining trapped since the beginning of the conflict
24 — ships attacked over roughly two weeks
100 — confirmed maritime incidents recorded across the region
24 — seafarers killed since the conflict began
Feb. 28 — start date of the conflict
Zoom Out
The IMO’s recorded incidents cover the broader region rather than only the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s letter was dated Oct. 9, the same date through which the IMO’s incident total was recorded.
Dominguez said the organization could review maritime regulations and procedures to establish stronger safeguards. He did not announce a formal investigation.
What’s Next
Dominguez’s warning leaves transit tied to the provision of safety guarantees. Iran has asked the IMO to pursue its allegations with member states and relevant international organizations.