MARITIMEPOSTS.COM – The Australian Government has reaffirmed its strong support for international maritime security, seafarer safety, and environmental protection during the 84th Session of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee held on May 1, 2026.
In its national statement, Australia expressed concern over the escalating tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and warned of the broader economic, humanitarian, and environmental consequences resulting from the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and regional actors.
Supporting Ceasefire and Diplomacy
Australia welcomed the extended ceasefire between the United States and Iran and urged all parties to continue negotiations aimed at preventing further escalation.
According to the statement, Australia views diplomacy as the only sustainable pathway to restoring stability in the region.
“The priority must be to avoid escalation and find a swift end to this conflict,” the Australian delegation stated before the IMO committee.
Concerns Over the Strait of Hormuz
A central focus of Australia’s position was Iran’s de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes for global oil and gas supplies.
Australia argued that attacks on commercial vessels, territorial waters of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members and Jordan, as well as strikes on civilian infrastructure and energy facilities, have triggered severe disruptions to global energy supply chains.
Canberra warned that prolonged instability could deepen impacts on:
- the global economy,
- food security,
- energy markets,
- and regional humanitarian conditions.
The statement also emphasised that threats against civilian shipping and merchant vessels are unacceptable under international law.
Strong Support for Seafarer Safety
Australia praised the work of the International Maritime Organization and the IMO Secretary-General in helping protect stranded civilian seafarers and supporting efforts to reopen safe maritime transit routes.
The Australian Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and safe passage for commercial shipping in accordance with international maritime law.
Australia also aligned itself with previous delegations calling on Iran to cease attacks and threats against:
- commercial and merchant vessels,
- critical port infrastructure,
- and coastal civilian infrastructure.
Environmental Risks Highlighted
Beyond security concerns, Australia strongly highlighted the environmental risks posed by the crisis.
The statement warned that attacks on oil tankers and merchant vessels stranded near the Strait of Hormuz create a serious threat of large-scale marine pollution.
Australia stressed that environmental damage in the region could severely impact:
- marine ecosystems,
- coastal livelihoods,
- desalination systems,
- and regional water security.
“The risk of large-scale environmental pollution is unacceptable,” the statement noted.
Support for International Monitoring
Australia voiced support for proposals encouraging the IMO Secretary-General, in cooperation with United Nations agencies and regional organisations, to monitor the environmental consequences of attacks and threats against maritime infrastructure.
The Australian Government also committed to continuing support for UN-led actions and collaboration with international partners to maintain maritime security and environmental protection.
In closing remarks, Australia again called on Iran and affiliated groups to halt what it described as “dangerous and destabilising attacks.”
The statement reflects Australia’s broader foreign policy position that maritime security, environmental sustainability, and international cooperation are closely interconnected in maintaining global stability.
