Approximately 6,000 sailors are currently trapped near the Strait of Hormuz as attacks on commercial vessels intensify, according to the United Nations' leading maritime official. This warning follows Iran's accusations against the U. S. military for allegedly using an international emergency radio channel to threaten civilian crews.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, highlighted the escalating crisis, noting that 24 ships have been attacked over the past two weeks. "The situation continues to be severe and critical when it comes to international shipping, " Dominguez stated, urging ships to avoid the Strait of Hormuz until safety guarantees are established.
Iran's allegations, detailed in an October 9 letter to the IMO, claim that the U. S. military has been occupying VHF Channel 16, a channel designated for maritime distress and safety, using it to intimidate Iranian crews. The letter, submitted by Seyed Ali Mousavi, Iran's ambassador to the IMO, accuses American forces of employing threatening language in Persian and urging Iranian seafarers to abandon their vessels.
In response, U. S. Central Command defended its actions, stating that the naval blockade of Iranian ports has been communicated professionally to all mariners. They emphasized that vessels refusing to comply with the blockade receive multiple warnings, with ample opportunity to comply.
Dominguez expressed concern over the misuse of Channel 16, noting that it should not be used for communications perceived as threatening.
Iran has requested the IMO to address these allegations with member states and relevant international organizations, potentially involving the International Telecommunication Union. While Dominguez did not announce a formal investigation, he mentioned that the IMO could review its regulations to determine if stronger safeguards are necessary.
The IMO has recorded 100 confirmed maritime incidents in the region as of October 9, with 24 seafarers killed since the conflict began on February 28. Dominguez also pointed out the rise in fraudulent ship registrations and false flags, which contribute to the escalating danger.
Despite the ongoing tensions, diplomatic channels with Iran remain open, although Dominguez has no direct contact with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. "I have communications with all the member states of IMO, and that includes the Islamic Republic of Iran, " he said, acknowledging the challenges in reaching final decisions due to the conflict.
