The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has called on governments to prioritise the safety of seafarers navigating the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters.
In a statement, ICS Chairman Emanuele Grimaldi expressed concern over the risks faced by crews operating in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime corridors.
“I have been deeply concerned about the seafarers who are being put in extreme danger in the Strait of Hormuz and the surrounding region when they are simply trying to do their job. By no fault of their own, their lives are now tragically at risk,” said Grimaldi.
The appeal follows a series of incidents involving merchant vessels in the area, prompting warnings from industry bodies and regulators. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) recently condemned attacks on merchant ships in the affected area.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said that “no attack on innocent seafarers or civilian shipping is ever justified.”
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Shipping organisations have urged all parties involved in the conflict to ensure the safety of crews working in the region.
The ICS, together with the European Shipowners’ Association and the Asian Shipowners’ Association, stressed that seafarers should not be exposed to the consequences of geopolitical tensions while carrying out their duties.
Grimaldi also called for immediate action to protect maritime personnel and maintain safe passage for commercial vessels.
“We call on all States to take the fundamental steps to ensure their safety. My thoughts are with the seafarers who have tragically lost their lives and their families, as well as the seafarers currently stranded,” he said.
The situation has already affected commercial operations. Several major carriers have revised services or suspended transits through the Strait of Hormuz as security concerns escalate, while analysts warn that disruption to the route could have major implications for global energy flows.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical shipping chokepoints, linking Gulf energy exporters with international markets. Any disruption to navigation through the waterway can have significant consequences for global supply chains and maritime trade.
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“Freedom of navigation is crucial to global trade. All States must ensure the safe passage of merchant vessels, prioritising the safety and welfare of the crew on board,” Grimaldi added.
The ICS said it will continue to monitor developments and provide updates to its members and the wider shipping community as the situation evolves.
“We all hope for a quick and peaceful resolution to this crisis,” he concluded.
For more information:
International Chamber of Shipping – https://www.ics-shipping.org/
