IMO issues resolution on Houthi Attacks in the Red Sea

The International Maritime Organization has issued resolution MSC.564(108) responding to the escalating security threats posed by Houthi attacks on commercial ships and seafarers in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

The resolution highlights a number of concerns and actions taken by the IMO and the broader international community to safeguard shipping in these critical maritime zones.

The IMO resolution focuses on the dangerous security situation in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, regions that are crucial for global maritime trade. The Houthi rebel group has been responsible for numerous attacks on commercial vessels transiting these waterways, severely threatening international shipping, humanitarian efforts, and the welfare of seafarers.

These attacks have been condemned by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), which in resolution 2722 called for the cessation of such hostile activities. The IMO echoes the UNSC’s concerns and reaffirms its commitment to ensuring maritime safety and freedom of navigation under international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Key Developments:

• The resolution condemns the illegal actions by the Houthis, particularly the attacks on ships and the seizure of the M/V Galaxy Leader and its 25-member crew on 19 November 2023. Despite international condemnation, the Houthis have carried out approximately 50 maritime attacks since this incident.
• It highlights the humanitarian impact, noting that these attacks have not only endangered lives but also disrupted the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to vulnerable populations. The resolution stresses that the Houthis' actions are exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region by blocking critical food, fuel, and medical supplies.

Environmental and Economic Impact:

• The environmental impact of Houthi attacks is noted, especially the sinking of the M/V Rubymar in February 2024 due to a missile attack, which caused significant marine pollution. This incident further illustrates the broad-reaching consequences of these maritime attacks, affecting local communities dependent on the sea for their livelihoods.
• The resolution also points out that as ships attempt to reroute or travel at higher speeds to avoid attacks, this leads to increased air emissions, thus contributing to environmental degradation.

Condemnation and Urgent Actions:

• The IMO strongly condemns the Houthi attacks and calls for the immediate cessation of all hostile actions against commercial ships. It specifically demands the immediate release of the M/V Galaxy Leader and its crew, emphasizing the unjust nature of their captivity.
• The resolution stresses the importance of preserving the freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, which are vital for global trade. It calls on all UN member states to take necessary measures to ensure maritime safety and security, including adhering to the UN arms embargo on the Houthis, as outlined in UN Security Council resolution 2216.

Recommendations and Ongoing Monitoring:

• The IMO urges member states, shipping operators, and industry stakeholders to provide maximum support to seafarers affected by Houthi attacks. It emphasizes the need for continued vigilance and for ship operators to carefully assess the risks of transiting these waters, given the unpredictability of the situation.
• The resolution calls for peaceful dialogue to resolve the ongoing conflict, urging those with influence over the Houthis to work towards halting the attacks.
• The IMO commits to closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with its member states and industry partners, with the goal of enhancing the safety of seafarers and ensuring the secure transit of ships. It also encourages ongoing sharing of information with the IMO regarding the security situation in the region.

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