The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has called for the protection of seafarers and the restoration of safe and unimpeded transit through the Strait of Hormuz, following the latest developments in the region.
Commenting on the situation, Thomas A. Kazakos, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping, said seafarers continue to be placed in harm's way despite having no involvement in the conflict, while expressing sorrow over the loss of another seafarer's life.
“Once again, seafarers have, through no fault of their own, been placed in harm’s way and sadly another seafarer has lost their life. These unjustified attacks on commercial shipping must stop.”
Kazakos stressed that the principle of freedom of navigation had been sidelined during the war, hindering global trade and crucial energy supply routes. He also emphasised that there is no legal mechanism by which a toll or restrictions can be placed on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
He called on all nations to uphold the fundamental principle of maritime law and to focus on ensuring that vessels are once again able to pass through the Strait of Hormuz safely and without impediment.
“Everyone must now focus on a permanent return to vessels being able to pass through the Strait of Hormuz unimpeded without paying a toll or other clearance mechanism.”
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