IMO calls for stronger maritime rule enforcement amid Hormuz security threats

November 13 ------ The IMO has called for stronger enforcement of maritime safety regulations as continued attacks and regional security tensions threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

On November 11, International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez urged Member States to take concrete action to address violations of international maritime regulations, warning that unsafe shipping practices are adding to the risks faced by seafarers operating in the region.

The statement comes amid continued attacks on commercial vessels, renewed tensions between Kuwait and Iran over shipping movements, and efforts by Gulf states to strengthen regional military coordination. According to the IMO, 134 incidents involving commercial vessels had been confirmed in the Middle East as of November 11, with at least 25 seafarers losing their lives since the conflict began on February 28. Other crew members have been reported missing or injured.

IMO raises concerns over unsafe shipping practices

In his latest statement, Dominguez expressed concern about reports of substandard vessels, ships concealing their IMO identification numbers, fraudulent registrations, false flags and other unsafe practices in and around the Strait of Hormuz.

He warned that vessels continue to transit the waterway without complying with fundamental requirements under international conventions, including the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). "IMO’s technical and operational regulations are there to protect seafarers, ships and the marine environment. They must be respected and enforced effectively," said Arsenio Dominguez.

Dominguez called on flag States, port States and relevant coastal States to exercise their responsibilities under IMO conventions and take appropriate measures against violations within their jurisdictions and in accordance with international law. He also urged shipowners and operators to avoid commercial activities that expose seafarers to unacceptable risks, emphasizing that governments must address the underlying causes of the conflict.

Following the decisions adopted during the IMO Council’s 138th session, held from November 2 to 6, Dominguez reiterated the need for political solutions to restore a single, safe and internationally recognized framework for navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, while preserving navigational rights and freedoms.

Regional tensions and shipping restrictions

The IMO’s warning follows continued uncertainty surrounding vessel movements in the Strait of Hormuz, where commercial ships face security threats and restrictions on navigation. Iran has warned vessels operating in the waterway to comply with its security requirements. The warnings have emerged alongside renewed tensions with Kuwait over attacks on tankers and the security of commercial navigation.

Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) has also reportedly expanded its blacklist to 239 vessels, adding to concerns about the restrictions facing ships operating in the region. The developments follow several attacks on commercial shipping, including the August 29 incident involving the Kuwaiti tanker Burgan. According to the IMO’s confirmed maritime incidents database, the vessel sustained damage in the Strait of Hormuz, although no pollution was reported.

Gulf states strengthen military coordination

Meanwhile, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) defense ministers have agreed to establish a forward headquarters for the bloc’s Unified Military Command in Kuwait, seeking to strengthen collective defense arrangements and regional security coordination.

The decision was announced on November 10 following the 23rd meeting of the GCC Joint Defense Council in Manama, Bahrain.

According to the GCC Secretariat, the six member states approved the establishment of the headquarters and the allocation of appropriate military forces as part of broader efforts to improve their response to regional threats. GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi condemned Iranian attacks against member states, citing damage to civilian facilities and infrastructure. He also emphasized the importance of military cooperation in protecting the security and stability of Gulf countries. The initiative involves Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Seafarer safety remains a priority

The latest developments underline the continuing operational risks facing commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters. During its 138th session, the IMO Council called on Member States to refrain from unlawful measures that could jeopardize the safety of seafarers and international shipping. The Council also highlighted the human consequences of the ongoing conflict, including the loss of seafarers’ lives and the difficulties faced by crews unable to leave the Persian Gulf safely.

The IMO’s latest appeal places additional emphasis on regulatory compliance, effective oversight and the responsibilities of States and ship operators to safeguard crews.

Source: safety4sea.com