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.

The IMO chief specifically cited reports of substandard vessels, ships concealing their IMO identification numbers, vessels operating under fraudulent registrations or false flags, and other unsafe practices.

The concerns add another dimension to the shipping crisis in the Persian Gulf, where vessels already face significant security risks from ongoing hostilities. Dominguez’s comments highlight the need for governments to enforce existing maritime regulations even as the conflict complicates commercial navigation.

He called on flag states, port states and coastal states to take action against violations within their respective jurisdictions and in accordance with international law.

“I strongly urge shipowners and operators to refrain from commercial activities in the Strait that expose seafarers to unacceptable risks,” Dominguez said.

The latest appeal follows last week’s meeting of the IMO Council in London, where member states called for stronger protections for seafarers and reiterated that vital shipping lanes must remain open, safe and secure.

During the November 2–6 meeting, the Council condemned attacks on merchant shipping and called on governments to refrain from unlawful measures that endanger seafarers and international navigation.

According to the IMO’s latest incident records, 133 incidents had been confirmed as of November 10, with 25 seafarer fatalities.

Dominguez also renewed his call for a political solution to the crisis, urging governments to restore a safe, internationally recognized framework for navigation through the Strait of Hormuz that preserves established rights and freedoms of navigation.

He warned that the conflict’s consequences extend well beyond the maritime industry, contributing to higher living costs for millions of people worldwide.

“It is imperative for Governments to tackle the root causes of this conflict,” he said.

Subscribe for Daily Maritime Insights

Sign up for gCaptain’s newsletter and never miss an update

— trusted by our 106,077 members