The International Maritime Organization (IMO) began its 137th Council meeting in London on Monday, focusing on maritime security. Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez pointed out ongoing instability around the Strait of Hormuz, increased piracy in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, and the importance of safeguarding critical shipping routes.
In his opening speech to delegates during the five-day meeting, Dominguez emphasized that recent events have highlighted the rising dangers for international shipping.
“Seafarers have sadly lost their lives due to this conflict, and its effects extend far beyond the region, impacting global trade, energy, and food security,” he said, referencing the recent unrest near the Strait of Hormuz.
While he acknowledged some improvement in the region’s situation, Dominguez expressed hope that affected crews could soon be rescued and commercial shipping would return to normal. He mentioned he would provide a more detailed update to Council members later in the week regarding the protection of essential shipping lanes.
Piracy Resurgence
The Secretary-General also warned that piracy has once again become a major issue off the coasts of Somalia and Yemen.
“In the last three months, we’ve recorded 24 piracy incidents and attempts in that area,” he noted.
Dominguez reiterated his call for the release of 44 seafarers held on hijacked vessels including MT Honour 25, Eureka, and Sward.
“Their situation is critical, and I ask for your help in ensuring their safe release,” he urged Council members. “These incidents remind us that the dangers of piracy and armed robbery against seafarers remain a serious concern, necessitating vigilance and coordinated efforts.”
He also reported that the Palau-flagged bulk carrier Lady Naeima was attacked by pirates in the Red Sea on Sunday; however, the vessel continued its journey and all crew members were safe.
This incident comes after alerts from the multinational Joint Maritime Information Center about ongoing pirate activities in the Gulf of Aden, despite the southwest monsoon, indicating that pirate groups still have the capability to launch aggressive attacks on merchant ships.
Council Agenda
The 137th session of the IMO Council will run until July 10 and will discuss various organizational and policy topics, including strategic planning, resource management, and reports from different committees like the Maritime Safety Committee and the Marine Environment Protection Committee. A specific focus will be on the protection of vital shipping lanes.
In his opening remarks, Dominguez mentioned that Council members would also explore a proposed resolution that reaffirms the organization’s commitment to ensuring navigational rights and freedoms for commercial vessels passing through international straits.
Additionally, he announced that both the 2012 Cape Town Agreement and the 2010 HNS Protocol have met the criteria to come into effect, representing significant progress for two longstanding international maritime agreements.
The 40-member IMO Council acts as the organization’s executive body, overseeing its activities between Assembly sessions and managing issues ranging from maritime safety and environmental protection to technical cooperation and global shipping security.