IMO's maritime security update: Red Sea crisis and international response efforts

The International Maritime Organization has published a committee document regarding measures to enhance maritime security with update on the Red Sea.

This document was published on 27 February 2024.

Background:

The Red Sea, a crucial maritime thoroughfare for international trade, has faced escalating security challenges since November 2023. The Houthis, a Yemeni rebel group, have intensified attacks on vessels navigating through these waters, compelling diversions and posing significant threats to maritime safety and commerce. Consequently, these attacks have precipitated a notable decline in maritime traffic within the Red Sea and have triggered a surge in fuel consumption as vessels opt for alternative routes.

Actions Taken by IMO:

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has been proactively engaged in efforts to address the escalating security risks. The Secretary-General of IMO has undertaken diplomatic initiatives, engaging with pertinent stakeholders to formulate measures aimed at safeguarding the lives of seafarers and defusing the conflict. Moreover, in a resolute response, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2722 (2024), unequivocally condemning the attacks and mandating the submission of monthly reports detailing any subsequent incidents. In compliance with this resolution, IMO has been diligently furnishing monthly reports to the UN Security Council while concurrently disseminating pertinent information to its Member States.

Galaxy Leader Incident:

The Galaxy Leader, a cargo vessel, fell victim to Houthi aggression in November 2023 when it was hijacked, and its crew was held captive. This brazen act of piracy has elicited strong condemnation from IMO, which has vocally advocated for the immediate release of the crew and the restoration of the vessel's operations.

International Naval Presence:

The escalating security threat prompted swift and decisive action from the international community. The United States launched "Operation Prosperity Guardian" to counter the Houthi-led assaults, deploying naval assets to protect vulnerable shipping lanes. Concurrently, the European Union's Naval Force initiated "Operation Aspides" with similar objectives of safeguarding maritime commerce. Additionally, various other international naval forces have been mobilized to patrol the region, ensuring unhindered navigation and the safety of seafarers.

Trade Impact:

The repercussions of the heightened insecurity in the Red Sea have reverberated throughout the global maritime industry. With a discernible decrease in maritime traffic within the region, several companies have opted to suspend transits via the Red Sea, diverting their vessels to alternative routes. Consequently, there has been a notable upsurge in tonnage arrivals at the Cape of Good Hope, underscoring the significant disruption caused by the security threats. IMO, cognizant of these market dynamics, continues to monitor the situation closely and provides relevant insights to its Member States.

Environmental Impact - MV RUBYMAR:

The environmental consequences of the security crisis manifested starkly with the MV RUBYMAR, a cargo vessel, falling victim to an attack involving an uncrewed aerial device, resulting in a devastating oil spill in the Red Sea. Recognizing the urgent need for environmental remediation, IMO has mobilized technical resources to support the containment and cleanup efforts.

MV True Confidence Incident:

Tragically, the security situation in the Red Sea escalated further when the MV True Confidence, a bulk carrier, came under attack by the Houthis, resulting in civilian casualties and extensive damage to the vessel. In response, IMO has extended its heartfelt condolences to the affected parties and has called for concerted international action to ensure the safety of seafarers operating in these perilous waters.

Djibouti Code of Conduct/Jeddah Amendment:

In a concerted effort to address the broader maritime security challenges in the region, IMO has convened a meeting with signatory states of the Djibouti Code of Conduct and Jeddah Amendment. These instruments seek to bolster international cooperation in combating piracy and other illicit activities in the maritime domain, underscoring IMO's commitment to fostering a secure maritime environment in the Red Sea.

Other IMO Capacity-Building Initiatives:

In addition to its immediate response efforts, IMO is actively involved in long-term capacity-building initiatives in the Red Sea region. Notably, a four-year EU-funded project is underway, aimed at enhancing port security and fostering regional dialogue to address the underlying security concerns comprehensively.

Industry Guidelines:

Recognizing the imperative of enhancing maritime security, industry associations have collaborated to update security guidance for vessels navigating the Southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Emphasizing the paramount importance of conducting thorough threat and risk assessments, these guidelines offer pragmatic recommendations to ship operators to mitigate security risks effectively.

Reporting to IMO:

IMO underscores the critical importance of timely and accurate information sharing in effectively addressing the security challenges in the Red Sea. Stakeholders are encouraged to continue sharing relevant information with IMO to facilitate proactive prevention and response measures.

Action Requested of the Committee:

In light of the foregoing, the Committee is earnestly urged to acknowledge the gravity of the situation and endorse concerted efforts to enhance information sharing among stakeholders. Furthermore, the Committee's guidance on additional measures to mitigate security risks in the Red Sea region would be invaluable in safeguarding the interests of all maritime stakeholders.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):

MEASURES TO ENHANCE MARITIME SECURITY - Update on the Red Sea