The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (Intercargo) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) have condemned the latest attack on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and called for dialogue to resolve the ongoing crisis.
The crew of Greek-operated bulk carrier, Magic Seas, were forced to abandon ship when it was hit by gunfire, drones and missiles off the coast of Yemen on Sunday.
The European Union Naval Force Operation Atlanta and the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations coordinated the rescue of the crew by a passing merchant vessel.
A Houthi group has since taken credit for the attack which was launched by militants in small vessels.
Intercargo chairman John Xylas condemned the latest attack on commercial shipping in the region.
“Seafarers are not targets. We are deeply shocked by the attack on the Magic Seas and our thoughts are with the crew. These are innocent people, simply doing their jobs, keeping global trade moving. No one at sea should ever face such violence.
“The safety of seafarers must come first. We urge all relevant authorities to act decisively to protect those at sea and uphold international law. Intercargo stands firmly with our members and all those affected.”
IMO secretary general, Arsenio Dominguez, has called for dialogue to establish vessel safety.
“After several months of calm, the resumption of deplorable attacks in the Red Sea constitutes a renewed violation of international law and freedom of navigation. Innocent seafarers and local populations are the main victims of these attacks and the pollution they cause.
“Constructive dialogue is the solution to resolving ongoing geopolitical crises affecting seafarers and international shipping.”
The IMO has been monitoring Red Sea incidents since Houthi attacks began in November 2023, with cases including the sinking of Rubymar in March 2024 and the loss of three lives on True Confidence in the same month.
The Red Sea crisis, linked to the Iran-backed Houthi movement’s campaign in solidarity with Palestinians over the Gaza war, has disrupted the vital corridor, which handles about 12% of global trade.
Between November 2023 and January 2025, more than 100 merchant vessels faced missile and drone attacks, sinking two ships and killing four seafarers.
The Houthis halted attacks in January 2025 after an Israel-Hamas ceasefire and resumed attacks on Sunday after US and allied airstrikes.
The Magic Seas attack marks the Houthis’ first acknowledged strike this year, with the Liberian-flagged vessel drifting and at risk of sinking, threatening an ecological disaster.
The UN Security Council’s Resolution 2722, adopted in January 2024, condemned the Red Sea attacks on commercial vessels and affirmed freedom of navigation, prompting Operation Prosperity Guardian to protect shipping.
However, US Navy vice admiral George Wikoff said in August 2024 that US and British efforts had failed to deter Houthi hostilities. The EU has also condemned the latest attack, highlighting risks to regional stability and humanitarian aid delivery to Yemen.
