London – The global shipping community declared today it is “appalled and deeply saddened with the tragic news that, yet another seafarer seems certain to have been killed in a drone boat strike on Wednesday 12 June while on board the MV Tutor in the Red Sea.”
It is the second sinking of a commercial ship by the Iran-backed Houthi terrorist group since they launched attacks in the region last November.
“Our thoughts and condolences go to the family and loved ones of the seafarer who tragically lost their life. It is deplorable that innocent seafarers are being attacked while simply performing their jobs, vital jobs which keep the world warm, fed, and clothed,” said the statement by a coalition of shipping organizations.
The statement continued: “This is the second fatal attack in which our seafarers have been caught in the crosshairs of geopolitical conflicts. Three seafarers tragically lost their lives when the True Confidence was attacked earlier this year. And we must not forget the crew members from the Galaxy Leader and MSC Aries who are still being held captive.
“Furthermore, we strongly condemn the attack on the cargo ship Verbena on Thursday 13 June which left a seafarer severely injured by anti-ship cruise missiles.
“This is an unacceptable situation, and 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. We have heard the condemnation and appreciate the words of support, but we urgently seek action to stop the unlawful attacks on these vital workers and this vital industry.
Co-signatories to this statement: Asian Shipowners’ Association (ASA), BIMCO, Cruise Lines international Association (CLIA), European Community Shipowners’ Association (ECSA), INTERMANAGER, International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO), International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), International Federation of Shipmasters’ Associations (IFSMA), International Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC), International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA), International Parcel Tankers Association (IPTA), INTERTANKO, The Federation of National Associations of Ship Brokers and Agents (FONASBA), World Shipping Council (WSC).
(Photo of Tutor)
