IMO calls for urgent action as piracy resumes in the Gulf of Aden
IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez issued the following statement following reports of the SEAMULL being hijacked on 20 August 2026: “Shipping challenges are on the rise with the recent increase of piracy incidents in the Gulf of Aden. With the most recent highjack, a sixth vessel is being held by pirates and armed robbers in ...
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has called for immediate and urgent action as piracy resurges in the Gulf of Aden. This comes after the hijacking of the SEAMULL on August 20, 2026, leaving six vessels in pirate captivity. Over 90 seafarers are now held hostage, enduring a constant threat to their lives with limited access to essential services.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez issued a statement condemning the situation, demanding the immediate release of the hostages. He emphasized that no seafarer should face violence or exploitation for their work. Dominguez stressed that while other areas of heightened tension may have captured international attention, the resurgence of piracy in the Gulf of Aden and surrounding waters cannot be ignored.
He urged flag and coastal states to ensure their ships are equipped with maritime security best management practices and relevant IMO guidance. Dominguez affirmed that IMO will continue to support regional efforts led by coastal states, including through the Djibouti Code of Conduct and its Jeddah Amendment. He reiterated that sustained international naval cooperation remains crucial to protecting merchant shipping and seafarers.
Written by urgent.news from Hellenic Shipping News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.