Tehran has filed a formal complaint with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), alleging that U.S. military forces are misusing VHF Channel 16, a crucial maritime communication frequency. Iran claims that these forces are transmitting threatening messages to Iranian seafarers, coinciding with recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian government warns that such interference may compromise emergency communications between ships.
In a letter to the IMO, Iran’s ambassador highlighted reports from commercial vessels and maritime operators indicating that U.S. military personnel have occupied VHF Channel 16 for extended periods. They allegedly addressed Iranian crews in Persian, using threatening and provocative language, even urging them to abandon their ships. This conduct, according to Iran, has disrupted a vital safety channel, causing significant psychological stress among civilian crews.
The complaint references IMO Assembly Resolution A.954(23), which emphasizes the proper use of VHF channels. Iran asserts that utilizing the channel for non-safety-related purposes could hinder genuine distress communications, endangering ships and their crews. Tehran has requested that the IMO disseminate this complaint to its member states and relevant organizations, urging prompt action on the matter.
This diplomatic complaint arises amid ongoing security incidents in the region, including recent attacks on commercial shipping. Reports indicate that on October 13, two vessels were struck by unknown projectiles near the Strait of Hormuz, following a series of six attacks on October 11, marking the highest daily incidents since the onset of the conflict. Additionally, two Indian seafarers went missing after a drone attack on another vessel, further escalating tensions in the area.
