The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (Intercargo) warned that attacks on merchant vessels have increased in recent months and called upon governments, global institutions and all parties to armed conflicts to take concrete steps to halt such attacks and ensure the safety of their crews.

In a strongly worded statement, Intercargo said it has observed a recent increase in attacks on merchant vessels, alongside a noticeable shift towards the direct targeting of commercial shipping.

"This is deeply concerning to our members and to the wider industry. Seafarers keep global trade moving. They are civilians doing their jobs. They should never be treated as military targets," it stated.

Intercargo pointed out that merchant vessels that are not involved in hostilities have long been afforded protection under international norms. Attacks on commercial shipping put the lives of civilian crews at risk, it added.

"Our members continue to move the food, fertiliser and goods that people and economies depend on. Every seafarer deserves to do that job safely and to return home," said the statement.

"The seas must remain a space for trade and cooperation, not conflict. Intercargo stands with the wider shipping community in urging restraint, respect for international law, and renewed protection for those who keep world trade moving," it added.-TradeArabia News Service