Approximately 115 vessels and 2,500 seafarers have been evacuated from the Strait of Hormuz since Tuesday, according to Arsenio Dominguez of the International Maritime Organization. This update follows the suspension of evacuation efforts for 600 ships after a recent attack in the Gulf of Oman, raising safety concerns for maritime operations.
The Directorate General of Shipping attended the UN Ocean Centres Stakeholders’ Workshop on May 21, 2026, in Ahmedabad, focusing on India’s ocean economy. Shri Satish Kamath highlighted maritime safety and sustainable practices. Discussions among diverse stakeholders emphasized the need for collaboration to address challenges in shipping, renewable energy, and skills development.
In a recent UN Security Council session, Iran’s Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani condemned the U.S. for undermining maritime security and violating international law. He characterized U.S. actions, including the seizure of Iranian vessels, as “piracy and hostage-taking,” warning that these threaten vital waterways and undermine freedom of navigation.
Iran has officially contacted the United Nations regarding the US seizure of its commercial vessel, the Touska. In a stern letter, Iranian officials demand the vessel’s and crew’s immediate release, urging the international community to pressure the US. This incident highlights escalating tensions and concerns over maritime security and international law.
The head of the UN’s maritime agency, Arsenio Dominguez, stated that no nation can legally obstruct vessels in the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Iran conflict. He emphasized that international law protects navigation rights, warning that any blockade would set a dangerous precedent and contradict established maritime laws.
The UN’s International Maritime Organization (IMO) has strongly opposed tolls on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, warning it could set a “dangerous precedent.” The IMO stressed that no international agreement allows such charges, asserting that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea protects the right to free passage.
The U.N. Security Council has requested Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to provide monthly updates on Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, despite Russia’s call to shift focus to Caribbean maritime issues. U.S. officials reaffirmed the importance of monitoring Houthi threats to protect international navigation and maintain global peace and security.
The United Nations has launched the first-ever Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035) in New York, emphasizing collaboration among governments, industry, and academia. The initiative aims to enhance cleaner mobility and access to essential services, with 83 global commitments supporting clean transport and significant investments in renewable fuels to reduce emissions.
In a recent UN Security Council address, Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the urgent need for maritime security, citing a 47.5% rise in piracy incidents in early 2025. He proposed a three-pronged strategy focused on international law, addressing root causes, and fostering global partnerships to secure vital shipping lanes for future generations.
The United Nations stresses the need for an agreement on freedom of navigation in the Black Sea to safeguard civilian vessels and port infrastructure, vital for global food security. Despite recent agreements between the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia, tensions remain high. Diplomatic efforts are crucial to ensure safe navigation in the region.
The Office of the Youth in Maritime (YIMO) has made history as the first seafarer-led youth organization recognized under the UN Ocean Decade’s ECOP Program. YIMO President Balinis sees this as a vital connection between research, policy, and young maritime professionals’ experiences. Their upcoming project aims to gather insights from seafarers worldwide to shape advocacy efforts and enhance industry transparency.
An international tribunal, backed by the UN, ruled that countries must take necessary actions to prevent marine pollution from greenhouse gas emissions. The case was brought by Small Island States on Climate Change, emphasizing the impact of climate change on rising ocean levels and temperatures. This landmark decision is seen as a step towards holding governments accountable for environmental damage.
