IMO reports surge in attacks on vessels in Hormuz, 20 lives lost

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has published new data highlighting a dramatic increase in hostile incidents within the Strait of Hormuz after the joint U.S.-Israel offensive against Iran. In total, 68 events have been logged, leading to the death of 20 sailors and port staff. The tally also includes 35 injured persons and one individual who remains missing.

The waterway, essential for the global flow of oil and gas, now faces a heightened threat level. Oil tankers have been the most frequently targeted vessels, with container ships and bulk carriers also suffering attacks. Ships bearing the flags of many nations have been caught up in the violence.

While a short period of peace negotiations saw a dip in the number of incidents, the cessation of talks was followed by a rapid rise in attacks. The IMO estimates that roughly 20,000 maritime professionals—ranging from ship crews to dock and offshore workers—are directly affected by the ongoing crisis.

A coordinated evacuation in June enabled the safe extraction of about 2,900 crew members from 136 vessels. The IMO stresses that, under current conditions, there is no reliable guarantee of safe passage through Hormuz, and that protecting the lives of seafarers must be the foremost concern.