The international shipping community is calling for immediate intervention following a drone boat strike on the MV Tutor in the Red Sea that likely resulted in the death of a seafarer.
The attack, which occurred on June 12, has drawn widespread condemnation from industry leaders who stress the need to protect maritime workers.
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) expressed deep sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the family of the deceased seafarer. “It is deplorable that innocent seafarers are being attacked while simply performing their jobs, vital jobs which keep the world warm, fed, and clothed,” the ICS stated.
This marks the second fatal attack involving seafarers in recent months. Earlier this year, three seafarers lost their lives when the True Confidence was attacked. Additionally, crew members from the Galaxy Leader and MSC Aries remain in captivity.
The shipping industry is also reeling from another assault on June 13, when the cargo ship Verbena was struck by anti-ship cruise missiles, severely injuring a seafarer.
“These attacks must stop now. 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,” the ICS urged. They highlighted the need for concrete action over mere words of condemnation to halt these unlawful attacks on the maritime workforce.
As the Day of the Seafarer approaches on June 25, the ICS hopes the world will acknowledge the crucial contributions of seafarers to the global economy and the dire circumstances they face.
This statement has been co-signed by several prominent industry associations, including the Asian Shipowners’ Association, BIMCO, Cruise Lines International Association, and the European Community Shipowners’ Association, among others.
