UPDATED MEDIA LINES 5 March 2026
IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez said:
“I am deeply concerned for the safety and well-being of the estimated 20,000 seafarers and 15,000 cruise ship passengers affected in the Gulf, following the recent attacks on international shipping in the Middle East and Strait of Hormuz.
“Beyond the economic impact of these alarming attacks, it is a humanitarian issue. No attack on innocent seafarers is ever justified.
“IMO is ready to work with all stakeholders to help ensure the safety and well-being of the seafarers affected.
“I reiterate my call for all shipping companies to exercise maximum caution when operating in the affected region.
“I urge all Parties to intensify efforts to de-escalate the situation as soon as possible, so that shipping can return to regular operations.”
Note to editors:
IMO provides an indicative list of shipboard incidents in the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz (incidents confirmed by the flag State of the relevant ship) here: Middle East
See also: Statement on the Strait of Hormuz – 1 March 2026
