IMO Council Reaffirms Freedom of Navigation in Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

The International Maritime Organization’s Council, meeting in London for its 137th session, adopted a resolution that reaffirms the right of unhindered transit through international straits and condemns recent attacks on civilian merchant vessels. The text stresses that passage through the Strait of Hormuz must remain free of tolls, that coastal states must regulate traffic in line with international law and IMO conventions, and that the Secretary‑General should explore measures to improve maritime safety.

The resolution follows a series of missile strikes by Iran on UAE‑flagged tankers in the strait, which killed an Indian seafarer and injured several others. India, Iraq, the United States, Saudi Arabia and the United Nations have all issued statements calling for safe navigation and de‑escalation. The United States’ Central Command affirmed that the strait remains open to lawful international shipping. Saudi Arabia highlighted its newly‑won seat on the IMO Council and its role in securing global supply chains, while India emphasized seafarer welfare and digital maritime governance. Iraq urged restraint to protect its own oil exports, and the UN secretary‑general reiterated the principle of free navigation.

The council also approved its 2025 annual report, noting a 99.1% collection rate of member‑state contributions and a £77.96 million revenue, and it updated its risk‑management policy with a new fraud‑risk annex.