International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has concluded a diplomatic tour of key Red Sea countries amid escalating maritime threats from Houthi forces. The crisis, which began with the hijacking of the MV Galaxy Leader in November 2023, has seen over a hundred drone and missile attacks on vessels in the area, significantly impacting global trade and seafarer safety. These attacks, reportedly motivated by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, have resulted in four deaths, two sunken ships, and extensive vessel damage, prompting many shipping companies to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, a costly and time-consuming detour.

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Dominguez’s diplomatic mission included high-level discussions in Djibouti, Egypt, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen, where he stressed the urgency of restoring safe navigation in the Red Sea. “The continuous attacks on ships and seafarers in the Red Sea are endangering innocent lives and affecting the entire shipping industry,” he stated, highlighting that international shipping underpins roughly 80% of global trade in goods.

The IMO is exploring ways to support affected nations and uphold the principle of freedom of navigation in the region, which plays a vital role in global maritime trade. “This region has strategic importance and potential for development to support sustainable maritime transport,” Dominguez emphasized.

However, challenges remain as Houthi forces have declared an ongoing blockade against Israeli-affiliated vessels, complicating efforts to stabilize the Red Sea shipping lanes. Yahya Sarea, the Houthi military spokesperson, recently asserted that vessels connected to Israel would remain targets, and alleged that many companies tied to Israel were divesting their assets in response to the attacks.

As the Red Sea crisis continues, Dominguez and the IMO are calling for unified global action to address the escalating threats and ensure safe passage in this critical maritime corridor.