On the 13th, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) held a press conference. Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez stated that ongoing geopolitical conflicts are currently impacting the safety of global shipping and that, under international law, no state has the right to impose navigation restrictions in international straits.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez stated: "At present, due to the impact of the conflict, passage through the Strait of Hormuz waterway is unsafe for vessels, which is precisely why transit is obstructed. However, from a legal perspective, under international law, no state has the right to prohibit innocent passage or impede freedom of navigation in international waterways."

Secretary-General Dominguez responded to questions from CGTN reporters during the press conference.

CGTN Reporter Yang Jingjing: "The IMO has always been a rule-maker and coordinator. Facing the current situation, how can coordination efforts prevent escalation into maritime conflict, and do international rules still hold effect?"

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez: "We are cooperating with Member States, all United Nations agencies, and stakeholders to work collaboratively towards finding solutions to the root causes. This includes achieving ceasefire agreements to allow shipping to return to normal. As the impact of geopolitical issues on shipping intensifies, we need deeper engagement to address these adverse effects."

Secretary-General Dominguez noted that approximately 20,000 seafarers and around 1,600 vessels remain trapped within the Strait of Hormuz. He called on all parties to pay attention to the safety and living conditions of seafarers. He emphasized that seafarers should not be risked in attempts to transit the Strait of Hormuz until the situation is confirmed to have de-escalated and safe passage can be assured.

CGTN Reporter Yang Jingjing: "At the IMO press conference, Secretary-General Dominguez repeatedly emphasized that the IMO is intensifying dialogue and coordination with other international organizations and relevant nations, working jointly to promote de-escalation of the situation."