Freedom of navigation is a fundamental right for all merchant ships, and it must be upheld.

Attacks on shipping put lives, trade, and ships at risk — as seen in recent incidents in areas like the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz.

Safe passage must be protected, ensuring that seafarers can do their jobs without fear and global trade can keep moving.

“We cannot allow attacks on commercial ships to become normalized or weaponized as political tools. The safety of those at sea, and the freedoms and rights of navigation, must be protected.”

— Joe Kramek, WSC President & CEO

Commercial shipping has been at risk of attack in the Red Sea since 2023. Escalating conflict in the Middle East in 2026 has further heightened security concerns across a region that includes some of the world’s most vital trade lanes. Both the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea are critical corridors for global trade.

Attacks involving missiles, drones, armed assailants and explosive-laden boats have placed seafarer safety at the forefront of industry concerns. Recent developments mean the security environment remains volatile.

Hostility in the Red Sea has led many carriers to divert vessels around the Cape of Good Hope rather than transit the Suez Canal. Such rerouting can add up to 17 days to transit times and increases operational complexity across global networks.

Ocean carriers will continue to make informed operational decisions to safeguard seafarers, cargo and vessels while maintaining the movement of essential goods.