Industry shares deep concern over tragic loss of life after Red Sea attack

BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping, CLIA, Intercargo, Intertanko, ECSA, OCIMF, and IMCA have issued a joint statement following the attack on the MV True Confidence in the Red Sea on 6 March 2024.

“Industry Associations express their deep concern over the tragic loss of life and injuries suffered by the crew of MV True Confidence in an attack in the Red Sea on 6 March 2024. “

“The loss of life and injuries to civilian seafarers is completely unacceptable. Merchant vessels crewed by civilian seafarers transporting global trade have a right to innocent passage through the region without the threat of attack.”

“The frequency of attacks on merchant shipping highlights the urgent need for all stakeholders to take decisive action to safeguard the lives of innocent civilian seafarers and put an end to such threats. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to all those affected by this terrible event.”

The industry body statement follows calls by IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez:

“It is deeply saddening to follow the horrific reports of the casualties on the merchant vessel True Confidence, following an attack on the ship southwest of Aden, in Yemen.”

“I extend my deepest condolences and those of the entire IMO family to the families of those who have lost their lives, and our thoughts are with those who have been injured. Innocent seafarers should never become collateral victims.”

“I want to thank the efforts of all ships in the area in assisting the vessel and particularly its crew. We all need to do more to protect seafarers.”

“I once again call for collective action to fortify the safety of those who serve at sea. International trade depends on international shipping  and international shipping cannot go on without seafarers.”