IMO's Arsenio Dominguez warns maritime sector to steer clear of the Strait of Hormuz due to rising military tensions and attacks on vessels.
LONDON – The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, has issued an urgent warning to the global maritime sector regarding the escalating military tensions in the Middle East and the increasing physical attacks on commercial vessels. Dominguez advised ship operators and companies to avoid using the Strait of Hormuz until conditions improve and to act with 'maximum caution' in the region.
Attacks Resulted in Loss of Life
On Sunday, it was confirmed that at least three commercial vessels were targeted in and around the Strait of Hormuz, with reports indicating that one sailor lost their life and several crew members were injured in these attacks. The news of a crew member's death following the hit on the tanker named MKD Vyom has resonated strongly within the maritime community.
Secretary-General Dominguez stated, 'No attack on innocent sailors or civilian vessels can be justified. These crews are simply doing their jobs and must be protected from the impacts of geopolitical tensions,' emphasizing that the freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle of international law.
Traffic at a Standstill in the Region
The tension in the region is reported to have escalated following U.S. and Israeli operations targeting military facilities in Iran. In response to radio announcements and reports suggesting that Iran has 'unofficially' closed the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation, many maritime companies, including global giants such as MSC, Maersk, and CMA CGM, have suspended their operations in the area.
Currently, it has been observed that approximately 200 vessels are either waiting at the entrance of the strait or have altered their routes to bypass the Cape of Good Hope.
Turkey Issues 'Level 3' Alert
In parallel with international warnings, the General Directorate of Maritime Affairs of the Republic of Turkey's Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure has raised the security level for Turkish-flagged vessels in the region to the highest level, Level 3. Turkish vessels have been instructed to closely monitor radio broadcasts in the area and to avoid risky waters unless absolutely necessary.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical artery through which approximately one-fifth of the global oil supply passes, and this blockage is expected to cause significant disruptions in energy markets and the global supply chain.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
