Despite a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, relocating the thousands of sailors stranded in the Gulf is still considered too dangerous. Arsenio Dominguez, secretary-general of the IMO, emphasized that safe transit guarantees are essential before any action can be taken, as many crews face urgent needs after prolonged isolation.
The International Maritime Organization’s Maritime Safety Committee has approved amendments to enhance ship-tracking data accessibility under SOLAS. Coastal nations will access standard ship position reports for free, improving vessel monitoring and safety. Additionally, the VHF Data Exchange System will replace AIS, enhancing data security and reducing spoofing risks starting January 1, 2028.
The International Maritime Organization has raised alarms about the resurgence of piracy in the western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden. Despite previous suppression, Somali piracy remains a threat. The ongoing detention of the MT Honour 25 highlights the urgent need for international collaboration to ensure the safety and humane treatment of crew members.
The International Maritime Organization’s Maritime Safety Committee has approved new safety guidelines for ammonia as fuel on gas carriers. Developed in collaboration with industry experts, these guidelines provide a practical framework for managing safety risks, paving the way for the commercial use of ammonia-fueled vessels and alleviating uncertainties for shipowners.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has adopted the MASS Code, a framework for the safe integration of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships into global shipping. Effective July 1, 2026, this voluntary code ensures autonomous vessels meet safety and environmental standards, allowing Member States to test its application before mandatory implementation.
The UNHCR, IMO, and ICS have released a revised Rescue Guide to aid partners in their humanitarian and legal duties regarding refugees and migrants at sea. This update, amid tragic shipwrecks, emphasizes the need for collective action to prevent loss of life and uphold the duty to rescue without discrimination.
Professor Momoko Kitada received the International Maritime Organization’s Gender Equality Award on May 18, 2026, during a ceremony in London. In her acceptance speech, she highlighted education’s crucial role in women’s economic stability and advocated for active engagement in gender equality. Her work promotes diversity and inclusion in maritime education.
This year’s IMO International Day for Women in Maritime, on May 18, focuses on achieving gender equality in the maritime industry. The theme, “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence,” highlights the need for actionable steps to improve the lives of women, including seafarers and shore-based professionals.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is seeking applications for four home-based consultancy roles in its Technical Cooperation and Implementation Division. These temporary positions focus on enhancing maritime safety, legal compliance, and international shipping. Candidates with expertise in maritime law, environmental protection, and project management are encouraged to apply by June 2, 2026.
Arsenio Dominguez, head of the IMO, expressed serious concern over seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, calling the situation “unacceptable.” He highlighted the psychological stress and security threats faced by these workers, warning that prolonged immobilization could lead to significant maritime incidents and impact global trade and economic stability.
The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) concluded its 84th session, addressing global shipping emissions and mid-term measures under the IMO Net-Zero Framework. Nearly 100 delegations participated, establishing an intersessional Working Group to foster consensus ahead of MEPC 85 in December. Key discussions emphasized the urgency for robust climate action.
The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) of the IMO convened in London, emphasizing urgent action against shipping emissions. Delegations discussed the “IMO Net-Zero Framework” and established an intersessional Working Group to refine proposals. A new Emission Control Area for the Northeast Atlantic was approved, reinforcing pollution limits by September 2027.
FMC Chairman Laura DiBella recently voiced strong opposition to the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework, citing potential financial burdens on U.S. shippers and consumers. She warned that the framework could lead to anticompetitive conditions and inflation, while the FMC remains vigilant in protecting U.S. shipping interests against unfavorable international regulations.
In a recent address to the UN Security Council, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez emphasized that “the principle of freedom of navigation is not negotiable.” He urged nations to reject tolls and discriminatory measures in international straits, underscoring the importance of unrestricted access for global trade and maritime security.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has called on member states to assist seafarers trapped in the Strait of Hormuz, where ongoing conflicts have led to vessel seizures and threats to maritime safety. He emphasized the urgent need for their release, stating, “they are not at fault,” as conditions continue to deteriorate.
