IMO Warns of Unsafe Shipping Practices in Strait of Hormuz
Ships ignoring basic safety standards are creating additional risks for crews in the Strait of Hormuz. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has called on governments to pay closer attention to these violations as the conflict continues. His statement was reported by gCaptain.
The IMO chief pointed to several problems, including ships hiding their identification numbers, using false flags or sailing with fake registration documents. He said national authorities responsible for ships, ports and coastal waters must deal with these violations. Dominguez also warned companies against sending crews into situations where their safety cannot be guaranteed.
By November 10, the IMO had counted 133 incidents involving merchant vessels in the region since February 28, 2026. The attacks have claimed the lives of at least 25 seafarers, while others are still missing or injured.
Dominguez stressed that stronger safety controls alone would not solve the crisis. He called for political action to restore safe navigation through the Strait, one of the world's key shipping routes.
