IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has warned shipowners and operators against sending vessels through the Strait of Hormuz without credible security guarantees.
Dominguez said he is increasingly concerned by reports that ships continue to transit the area despite escalating security risks.
He stressed that the safety of seafarers must remain the industry’s highest priority.
The IMO chief noted that recent incidents have already resulted in deaths, injuries and detentions involving seafarers.
He said the situation in the region remains highly volatile and lacks reliable security assurances.
“Under such circumstances, safe passage cannot be considered to exist,” Dominguez said.
He reminded shipowners and masters of their responsibility to conduct thorough and realistic voyage risk assessments.
He said masters and shipping companies remain ultimately responsible for voyage planning and compliance with safety and security management requirements.
Dominguez urged the industry to apply the highest standards of caution when assessing voyages through high-risk areas.
He also stressed that commercial pressures should never outweigh crew safety.
“No commercial or operational consideration can justify exposing seafarers to such levels of danger,” he said.
“The protection of their lives must remain the overriding priority at all times.”
Dominguez called on all stakeholders to act responsibly and avoid actions that could place civilian seafarers at risk.
