The International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, during its 138th session held from November 2 to 6, 2026, at the IMO headquarters in London, emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety, security, health, and welfare of seafarers. This session was convened in response to the increasing threats against international maritime transport, particularly in critical areas such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Black Sea.
Attacks on Commercial Vessels and Human Casualties
The IMO Council strongly condemned the attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, as well as attacks related to the Russian Federation on commercial ships and port infrastructure. Additionally, Arsenio Dominguez, the Secretary-General of IMO, reported the death of another seafarer following the attack on the M/T VELOS SAPPHIRE in the Strait of Hormuz on November 5, bringing the confirmed death toll since the onset of conflicts in the Middle East to 25. To date, at least 130 attacks on commercial vessels in this region have been recorded, and many seafarers remain at risk.
Read more: Technical Issues Cause Thick Smoke at Tehran Refinery
Maritime Security Challenges and Preventive Measures
The IMO Council emphasized the need to maintain freedom of navigation and security in the Black Sea and urged member states to refrain from illegal actions that jeopardize the safety of seafarers and maritime transport. The Secretary-General also reiterated his determination to find more effective measures to prevent further casualties and reduce the human costs arising from the crisis. Furthermore, the IMO Council reported an increase in piracy and armed robbery attacks in the Western Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden and supported the implementation of the Djibouti Code and the Jeddah Amendment to address these issues.
The IMO Council also agreed to extend the four-year term of Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez until December 31, 2031, and emphasized the importance of consultation and cooperation among member states in financing the organization's activities. The IMO Council approved the allocation of £2 million for updating the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System and creating an e-learning platform. These actions are considered part of the organization's efforts to enhance the security and efficiency of global maritime navigation.
Read more: Archer Secures Two-Year Drilling Contract with Vista in the Waka Muerta Field · Decrease in Oil and Gas Activities at Abern Port is Rapidly Increasing
