Recent incidents affecting commercial shipping, including within our own bunkering community in the last 24 hours, have resulted in the tragic loss of seafarers’ lives and left others injured or missing. On behalf of its Global Board and Secretariat, IBIA expresses its deepest sorrow for all those affected and extends its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the victims.

These incidents are a tragic reminder that innocent seafarers continue to bear the human cost of geopolitical conflicts. Seafarers are civilians carrying out an essential service to the global economy and should never become victims of violence.

IBIA strongly condemns attacks against commercial shipping and stands with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the wider maritime community in calling for greater protection of seafarers and an immediate end to attacks on merchant vessels.

IBIA’s Board calls on governments and the international community to take decisive action to prevent further loss of life, protect freedom of navigation, safeguard global trade and uphold international law.

Alexander Prokopakis, Executive Director of IBIA, commented:

“Too often, seafarers become the forgotten victims of geopolitical conflicts in which they play no part.  I fully agree with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez that attacks on innocent seafarers and civilian shipping are totally unacceptable. The men and women serving at sea are not involved in these disputes. They are delivering energy, food and essential goods that keep economies and societies functioning.

Seafarers deserve protection, respect and the ability to do their jobs without becoming targets.”