Shipping Industry Urges Protection for Civilian Seafarers as Global Maritime Threats Escalate

The global shipping industry is sounding the alarm: civilian seafarers are increasingly being caught in the crossfire of geopolitical conflict. With attacks on merchant vessels mounting across the Middle East and the Black Sea, the sector is demanding stronger protection for the people who keep world trade moving.

This week, in separate statements, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the dry bulk association INTERCARGO called on governments and parties to armed conflicts to uphold international law, safeguard civilian shipping, and ensure the safety of the world's merchant mariners.

The appeals arrive nearly five months after fighting in the Middle East intensified, and amid a sharp rise in attacks on commercial vessels in both the Strait of Hormuz and the Black Sea.