Update 08 Nov 2026, 22:32 UTC:
During its recent 138th session held from November 2 to 6, 2026, at the IMO Headquarters in London, the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) reiterated its commitment to the safety and security of seafarers amid rising threats to international shipping. This session comes in response to a surge of attacks against merchant vessels, particularly in the Red Sea and Black Sea regions, underscoring the urgency of effective security measures.
Recent Incidents
Among the most pressing concerns addressed during the meeting was the tragic death of a seafarer following an assault on the M/T VELOS SAPPHIRE in the Strait of Hormuz on November 5. This grim development elevated the number of confirmed seafarer fatalities to 25 since the start of ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. In total, the IMO has verified at least 130 attacks against commercial vessels in the Middle East, which places thousands of seafarers in jeopardy as many remain unable to depart from Persian Gulf waters.
Condemnation of Aggressions
In a strong statement, the Council condemned the assaults perpetrated by Houthi forces against merchant shipping and crew members in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait. It also denounced Russian Federation attacks targeting merchant vessels and maritime infrastructure supporting Ukraine’s special maritime corridor. These challenges are of significant concern not only for current shipping operations but also for global maritime security as a whole.
Furthermore, the Council recognized an alarming increase in piracy and armed robbery in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden, citing 17 incidents since the beginning of the year. Emphasis was placed on the importance of ongoing initiatives, including the Djibouti Code of Conduct and its Jeddah Amendment, to combat these threats effectively.
Future Directions
The Council called upon Member States to adopt measures that ensure the protection of seafarers from unlawful actions that jeopardize their safety, thus preserving the integrity of international shipping lanes. Secretary-General Arsenio Domínguez committed to exploring additional concrete strategies to alleviate the human cost of these crises, while continuing to monitor security developments in affected regions.
Why It Matters
The reaffirmation of the IMO’s commitment to seafarer safety amid escalating threats highlights the critical intersection of geopolitics and maritime operations. These developments present complex challenges for operators, crews, and charterers, emphasizing the necessity for robust security protocols and contingency planning. Shipping companies must prepare for the potential ramifications of heightened geopolitical tensions, including increased insurance costs and operational disruptions. Enhanced cooperation among Member States and strategic measures will be essential in safeguarding maritime trade and securing the welfare of seafarers in the face of ongoing dangers.
