IMO calls Extraordinary Council meeting to discuss situation in Middle East

The Council will focus on the impact on shipping and seafarers in the Arabian Sea, the Sea of Oman and the Gulf region, particularly in and around the Strait of Hormuz.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) will hold an Extraordinary Session of its Council to address the impacts on shipping and seafarers of the situation in the Arabian Sea, the Sea of Oman and the Gulf region, particularly in and around the Strait of Hormuz.

The session will be held on 18 to 19 March 2026 at IMO headquarters in London, United Kingdom, to be chaired by Mr. Victor Jiménez of Spain.

The Extraordinary Session (C/ES.36) is convened following requests from several Council Members.

IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez held briefings with industry organizations (11 March) and Member States (12 March) to share information and discuss recent developments.

The Council is the Executive Organ of IMO, consisting of 40 Member States, elected by the IMO Assembly.