Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Since the start of the US-Israeli bombing of Iran in late February, about 20,000 seafarers have been stranded on 2,000 vessels in the Persian Gulf, near Iran, unable to safely navigate the narrow Strait of Hormuz, according to International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez.
Maritime security involves protecting ships, ports, seafarers, and maritime infrastructure against threats such as piracy, terrorism, cyberattacks, and illicit activities, including arms and drug trafficking, wildlife trade, crude oil theft, human smuggling, and illegal toxic waste dumping—especially for coastal states, Dominguez explained.
He noted that maritime security is crucial for protecting global commerce, ensuring the safety of seafarers, and keeping supply chains functioning. Without it, maritime and sustainable development may be unachievable.
The crisis at the Strait of Hormuz has shown that ships and their crews in conflict zones are especially vulnerable, sometimes being used as bargaining chips in geopolitical disputes. Commercial vessels have faced targeting, detention, or attacks, highlighting the fragility of freedom of navigation.
To better protect seafarers during geopolitical conflicts, Dominguez emphasized sharing accurate information, as mis- and disinformation complicate risk-based voyage planning. Ship operators should conduct detailed risk assessments before voyages through or within conflict areas. While diplomacy and de-escalation are key, naval escorts are of limited use and not a sustainable solution.
Reflecting on maritime security threats, Dominguez cited terrorist acts such as the 1985 hijacking of the Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro and the heightened concerns after the September 11, 2001 attacks, which exposed vulnerabilities in shipping security.