IMO Declares Strait of Hormuz Unsafe Amid Vessel Attacks
International Maritime Organization Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez declared the Strait of Hormuz unsafe for shipping following a surge in vessel attacks and mine explosions.
Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has declared the Strait of Hormuz unsafe for international shipping. This declaration follows a nine-month conflict that has seen daily transit plummet from 135 vessels to as few as two. Dominguez reported over 120 vessel attacks since February, including 30 in October alone, resulting in 24 deaths and several sinkings.
Recent violence between Friday and Sunday included a projectile strike on a merchant vessel and the explosion of two oil tankers. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy claimed the tankers struck mines while using an unauthorized route. Additionally, the Al-Mayeda, a liquefied natural gas carrier owned by Qatar Gas Transport Company, was struck by unidentified objects on Friday, though the vessel remained operational.
These maritime disruptions have driven oil prices toward $118 a barrel and increased global diesel prices by over 20% in 95 countries. While the United States government claims the waterway is clear of mines, Dominguez stated there is no confirmation that hazards have been removed.
The conflict persists as Iran targets shipping to assert control over the waterway while the United States maintains a blockade of Iranian ports. The IMO is currently engaging with Iranian diplomats to seek a resolution, while the Government of Qatar is attempting to revive diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Iran.
