Iraq Participates in International Maritime Organization Briefing on the Navigational Situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Middle East

A delegation of the Republic of Iraq participated in a briefing convened by the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, Mr Arsenio Dominguez, on 24 April 2026 in London, to discuss the latest developments concerning the navigational situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Middle East, as well as the safety of seafarers in the region.

The Secretary-General outlined the Organization’s efforts, in cooperation with Member States, to develop a plan for the evacuation of seafarers when safe conditions permit. He also highlighted ongoing coordination with the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Sultanate of Oman to regulate transit through the maritime corridor. He further referred to the challenges arising from geopolitical developments and their impact on maritime safety and supply chains, underscoring the importance of respecting the right of innocent passage and ensuring the protection of seafarers.

He called for enhanced international support for seafarers, including the provision of communication means to reassure their families, and noted the continued cooperation with the International Labour Organization regarding their rights and working conditions.

The Republic of Iraq was represented by Counsellor Amer Abdulhussein Al-Fatlawi and First Secretary Alyaa Ihsan Al-Sayegh, responsible for the International Organisations and Multilateral Relations Portfolio in the Political Section.