The shipping industry is calling for action once again following the recent attacks on MV Tutor and cargo ship Verbena, which resulted in the loss of lives.

Fourteen maritime groups expressed their concern about the continued attacks and emphasized the importance of seafarers in keeping the world trade going.

The Asian Shipowners' Association (ASA), BIMCO, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the European CInternational Maritime Pilots' Association (IMPA), Community Shipowners' Association (ECSA), INTERMANAGER, 

"The shipping community is appalled and deeply saddened with the tragic news that yet another seafarer seems certain to have been killed in a drone boat strike on Wednesday, June 12, while on board the MV Tutor in the Red Sea. We utterly condemn these assaults, which directly contravene the fundamental principle of freedom of navigation," the statement said.

"It is deplorable that innocent seafarers are being attacked while simply performing their jobs, vital jobs which keep the world warm, fed, and clothed."

The groups noted that this is the second fatal attack in which our seafarers have been caught in the crosshairs of geopolitical conflicts.

Three seafarers tragically lost their lives when the True Confidence was attacked earlier this year. The crew members from the Galaxy Leader and MSC Aries are also still being held captive.

"Furthermore, we strongly condemn the attack on the cargo ship Verbena on June 13, which left a seafarer severely injured by anti-ship cruise missiles," the joint statement said. "This is an unacceptable situation, and these attacks must stop now."

"We call for States with influence in the region to safeguard our innocent seafarers and for the swift de-escalation of the situation in the Red Sea. We have heard the condemnation and appreciate the words of support, but we urgently seek action to stop the unlawful attacks on these vital workers and this vital industry," the groups added.

The maritime organisations issued the statement ahead of this year's "Day of The Seafarer" on June 25, highlighting the immense contribution that seafarers make to the global economy and the unjust circumstances they are facing in the Red Sea and across the world.