The international shipping industry has collectively condemned the latest attacks in the Red Sea including the recent drone boat attack on the commercial bulker, Tutor, that claimed the life of a seafarer who was trapped in the flooded engine room after the hit.
“The shipping community is appalled and deeply saddened with the tragic news that yet another seafarer seems to have been killed in a drone boat strike on June 12 while on board the Tutor in the Red Sea,” the shipping community said in a joint statement on Wednesday.
The statement condemning the attacks in the region was signed by 15 global shipping and maritime industry associations including: the Federation of National Associations of Ship Brokers and Agents; World Shipping Council; International Chamber of Shipping; International Federation of Shipmasters’ Associations; International Maritime Employers’ Council; and the International Maritime Pilots’ Association.
“We utterly condemn these assaults which directly contravene the fundamental principle of freedom of navigation. Our thoughts and condolences go to the family and loved ones of the seafarer,” the industry said.
The shipping community added that it is “deplorable” that innocent seafarers are being attacked while simply performing their essential jobs which keep the world warm, fed and clothed.
“This is the second fatal attack in which our seafarers have been caught in the cross hairs of geopolitical conflicts. Three seafarers tragically lost their lives when the True Confidence was attacked earlier this year. And we must not forget the crew members from the Galaxy Leader and MSC Aries who are still being held captive,” the industry said.
“We strongly condemn the attack on the cargo ship Verbena on Thursday, June 13 which left a seafarer severely injured, by anti-ship cruise missiles,” it added.
The industry's associations said the situation was “unacceptable” and called for the attacks to stop immediately.
“We call for states with influence in the region to safeguard our innocent seafarers and for the swift de-escalation of the situation in the Red Sea. We have heard the condemnation and appreciate the words of support, but we urgently seek action to stop the unlawful attacks on these indispensable workers and this vital industry,” the industry said.
The statement was also signed by the International Parcel Tankers Association; Asian Shipowners' Association; Cruise Lines International Association; Baltic and International Maritime Council; European Community Shipowners' Associations; InterManager; International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners; and the International Association of Ports and Harbors.
