IBIA Condemns Attacks on Commercial Vessels

The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has issued a statement condemning attacks on commercial vessels following attacks and incidents over the past 24 hours that have affected commercial shipping, including incidents involving members of its own bunkering community.

In its statement, IBIA said that incidents affecting commercial shipping over the past 24 hours had tragically resulted in the deaths of seafarers, while others had been injured or remained missing.

On behalf of its Global Board and Secretariat, IBIA expressed its deep sadness for everyone affected by the incidents and extended its condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of those who lost their lives.

The statement said: “These incidents are a tragic reminder that innocent seafarers continue to bear the human cost of geopolitical conflicts. Seafarers are civilians performing a service that is vital to the global economy and should never be victims of violence.”

IBIA strongly condemned attacks on commercial vessels and, together with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the wider maritime community, called for greater protection of seafarers and for an immediate end to attacks on commercial vessels.

The IBIA Board also called on governments and the international community to take decisive action to prevent further loss of life, safeguard freedom of navigation, protect global trade and uphold international law.

“Seafarers deserve to be protected and to carry out their duties without becoming targets”

The statement also highlighted the risks faced by seafarers, while IBIA Executive Director Alexander Prokopakis commented on the recent incidents.

Prokopakis said: “Seafarers are often the forgotten victims of geopolitical conflicts in which they have no role. I fully agree with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez that attacks against innocent seafarers and civilian vessels are completely unacceptable. The men and women working at sea have nothing to do with these disputes. They deliver energy, food and essential goods that keep economies and societies functioning. Seafarers deserve to be protected, respected and able to carry out their duties without becoming targets.”