Two of the world’s leading tanker industry organisations have released a joint statement warning that seafarers are navigating a “complex and uncertain environment” as the security situation across the Middle East continues to develop.
According to Ship & Bunker, INTERTANKO and the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) issued the statement on Wednesday, with seafarer safety positioned firmly at its core. “As we monitor the evolving situation across the Middle East and its waterways, our focus remains on the safety of seafarers and all those affected,” the organisations stated.
Guidance on Operational Decision-Making
Ship & Bunker reports that both organisations are calling on maritime companies to ground all operational decisions in verified information sourced from authoritative and trusted channels. This includes conducting thorough, company-led due diligence and comprehensive risk assessments that span every stage of a voyage — from open-water transits to port calls and ship-to-ship (STS) operations.
The Human Element
Beyond procedural safeguards, INTERTANKO and OCIMF also placed emphasis on the human dimension of safe operations. As reported by Ship & Bunker, the organisations highlighted that crew workload, fatigue, communication, and planned crew changes are all factors capable of influencing safe outcomes at sea — a recognition that operational safety in high-pressure environments is as dependent on people as it is on protocols.
Ongoing Industry Engagement
The two bodies indicated they will continue working alongside industry partners and governments, actively monitoring regional developments in order to support safe and responsible marine operations going forward.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker (https://shipandbunker.com)
