**IMO Chief Condemns Deadly Attack on Cargo Ship Tihamah in the Red Sea**
The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, has issued a strong condemnation following a deadly attack on the cargo ship Tihamah, which occurred off the coast of Yemen. This incident, which took place near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, has raised significant concerns regarding the safety of commercial vessels and the broader implications for global supply chains.
The Tihamah, a Tanzania-flagged and Egyptian-owned vessel, was struck on Tuesday, resulting in the tragic loss of life. Reports indicate that several seafarers were killed in the attack, with Yemeni authorities confirming the deaths of four crew members and two Yemeni rescuers. Additionally, ten individuals sustained injuries during the incident. Dominguez expressed his sorrow over the attack, stating, “It is with sadness and regret to know that, once again, innocent seafarers have lost their lives in an indefensible attack on international shipping.” He extended his condolences to the families affected by this tragedy.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a critical maritime corridor that connects the Indian Ocean to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, making it a vital route for global trade. However, the recent violence against commercial vessels has raised alarms about the security of this area. Dominguez highlighted the troubling nature of the attack's location and reiterated the need for shipowners and operators to carefully assess risks when navigating the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. He stated, “Seafarers deserve to be protected and allowed to do their jobs in safety and security.”
The attack on the Tihamah has compounded existing concerns regarding maritime safety in the region. Shipping traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has reportedly decreased by more than 50% compared to pre-attack levels, with an average of 32 ships passing through the strait last week, down from approximately 50 previously. This decline in shipping activity underscores the impact of ongoing violence on global trade and the maritime industry.
Dominguez warned that the continued attacks on shipping not only escalate tensions but also pose a significant threat to global supply chains, which rely on the safe passage of goods. He called for the immediate and unconditional release of all seafarers still held captive as a result of piracy incidents in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. “Ensuring seafarer safety is a fundamental obligation under international law and a shared responsibility of the global community,” he concluded.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community is urged to take collective action to enhance maritime security in the region and protect the lives of those who work at sea. The IMO remains committed to advocating for the safety of seafarers and the integrity of international shipping routes.