You are using an outdated browser For a better experience using this site, please upgrade to a modern web browser. Subscribe Get Daily Email Subscribe --> Contact Us Sign in Home News & Features Compliance Costs Bunker Prices Bunker Intelligence World News Latest Features World Americas EMEA Asia/Pacific Home News & Features World IFSMA Calls for Stronger Protection of Merchant Seafarers in Conflict Zones IFSMA Calls for Stronger Protection of Merchant Seafarers in Conflict Zones by Ship & Bunker News Team Monday August 3, 2026 Tweet Follow @shipandbunker IFSMA says civilian crews must never become legitimate military targets. File Image / Pixabay IFSMA calls for stronger protection of merchant seafarers in armed conflict Body says civilian crews must never become legitimate military targets Urges the UN , IMO , ILO and industry to take immediate measures The International Federation of Shipmasters' Associations ( IFSMA ) has called for stronger protection of merchant seafarers in areas affected by armed conflict, saying civilian crews must never become legitimate military targets. The body, which represents more than 16,000 serving shipmasters and holds consultative status with the International Maritime Organization ( IMO ), said it was deeply concerned over the continuing loss of seafarers' lives in conflict areas. It said recent attacks on merchant vessels demonstrated the risks faced by civilian crews who transport the food, energy, medicines and other essential goods on which the world depends. "Merchant seafarers are civilians," IFSMA said in a statement. “ No seafarer should lose their life simply for doing their job IFSMA "They are not participants in armed conflict and must never become legitimate military targets." Seafarers also have little or no influence over a ship's route, cargo or the commercial decisions that place them in conflict areas, it added. The federation said international humanitarian law required all parties to distinguish be