BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 30. The UN International Maritime Organization (IMO) has called for an immediate halt of attacks on ships passing through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, adopting a resolution to this effect at a meeting in London, Trend reports via IMO.
This marks the inaugural resolution ratified by member states of the IMO concerning attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, following the seizure of the MV Galaxy Leader by the Houthis in November 2023, with 25 crew members currently held captive.
"The attacks present a direct threat to freedom of navigation along one of the world's most crucial waterways, causing significant disruptions to regional and global trade. Since November 2023, approximately 50 attacks have occurred in the Red Sea, resulting in the loss of the lives of numerous seafarers. The Houthis' reckless actions endanger innocent lives, obstruct the delivery of humanitarian aid, and contribute to regional instability," the resolution stated.
The IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco emphasized that the organization's 176 member states unequivocally condemn these reckless attacks.
“The maritime industry upholds supply chains crucial for countries and populations worldwide. Commercial ships, transporting vital goods, should navigate freely without being hindered by geopolitical tensions. I urge all governments and relevant organizations to provide maximum assistance to affected sailors and spare no effort to resolve this crisis,” he added.
To note, the navigation crisis in the Red Sea has forced vessels to detour around the Cape of Good Hope, resulting in longer transit times and increased transportation costs, consequently impacting cargo prices.
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