IMO Council Calls for Coordinated Response to Strait of Hormuz Shipping Attacks

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council has issued a strong condemnation of ongoing attacks and threats against merchant shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, calling for internationally coordinated security measures to protect one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints. During an extraordinary session held March 18-19 in London, the IMO Council addressed the escalating security situation in the Middle East and its cascading impact on global shipping. The Council's formal response aligns with UN Security Council Resolution 2817 and emphasizes the fundamental right of merchant vessels to exercise navigational freedoms under international law. "Let it be the responsibility of each and every one of us to demonstrate that inaction is not an option, that words alone are not sufficient," IMO Secretary-General stated in closing remarks, underscoring the organization's view that coordinated action is essential. ## Critical Seafarer Protections The Council called on member states to halt all attacks on civilian shipping and to ensure continuous provision of water, food, fuel, and other essential supplies to vessels unable to leave the region. The measures also address crew welfare, urging states to facilitate crew change and renewal operations and to maintain seafarers' communication with families—critical issues as crews face extended, unplanned port delays in the region. ## Global Supply Chain Implications The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping artery, with approximately one-third of seaborne traded oil passing through the 33-mile waterway. Disruptions to this route create cascading effects across energy markets and containerized freight flows, elevating costs and delaying delivery schedules worldwide. The IMO's call for internationally coordinated security reflects industry concern that unilateral responses could fragment the global shipping system. Carriers including Maersk have already begun adjusting operations in response to regional instability. The carrier announced revised terminal handling charges (OHC/DHC) for Vietnam routes, effective May 1, 2026, reflecting ongoing operational adjustments in Asia-Pacific markets as carriers manage route planning and port infrastructure costs amid broader geopolitical uncertainty. ## International Coordination Framework The IMO Council emphasized that security responses must be coordinated rather than ad-hoc, a position that reflects the maritime industry's dependence on predictable, rules-based navigation standards. The organization reiterated that merchant vessels' exercise of navigational rights under international law must be respected, signaling opposition to any closure or restriction of the Strait. The extraordinary session represents one of the IMO's most forceful statements on maritime security in the region, positioning the organization as an advocate for both seafarer welfare and freedom of navigation principles that underpin global trade.