IMO Chief Calls for Strict Enforcement of SOLAS Rules in Strait of Hormuz

International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has called on governments to step up enforcement of international maritime regulations in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that unsafe shipping practices are adding to the risks facing seafarers amid the ongoing conflict.

In a statement issued Wednesday, Dominguez raised concerns about vessels transiting the strategic waterway without complying with basic international safety requirements, including provisions of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).

The warning comes as commercial shipping continues to face attacks in and around the Strait of Hormuz, where the IMO has now verified more than 130 incidents involving merchant vessels since the conflict began on February 28. At least 25 seafarers have been killed, while others remain missing or have been injured.

“IMO’s technical and operational regulations are there to protect seafarers, ships and the marine environment. They must be respected and enforced effectively,” Dominguez said.

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