The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has called for stronger protection of merchant vessels and seafarers amid continuing attacks across major shipping routes. During its 138th Council session in London from November 2 to 6, the organization stressed that international shipping lanes must remain open, safe, and secure.

According to verified IMO data, at least 130 attacks against commercial vessels have occurred in the Middle East since the regional conflict began, resulting in 25 confirmed seafarer deaths. The latest fatality followed an attack on the tanker Velos Sapphire in the Strait of Hormuz on November 5, while thousands of other seafarers remain exposed to danger, including crews unable to leave the Persian Gulf.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said seafarers continue to suffer deaths, injuries, abandonment, delayed repatriation, and shortages of food, water, and medical care because of geopolitical conflicts. The Council condemned attacks against merchant ships in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait, as well as attacks affecting commercial vessels, ports, and maritime safety services supporting Ukraine’s Black Sea shipping corridor.

The Council also raised concern over increasing piracy and armed robbery in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden, where 17 attempted or confirmed incidents have been recorded since the beginning of 2026. Member States were urged to avoid unlawful actions that could endanger crews, while the IMO committed to identifying additional measures to reduce casualties and protect seafarer welfare.