The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) on Thursday (10 September) strongly condemned attacks against commercial shipping, following recent incidents affecting commercial shipping, including within the bunkering community in the last 24 hours. IBIA said the attacks have resulted in the tragic loss of seafarers’ lives and left others injured or missing. Yesterday, Manifold Times reported marine fuels supplier Peninsula confirming that its bunker tanker Hercules Star was involved in an incident whilst at anchorage off Dubai. The company also confirmed one fatality and one member of crew missing, with a specialist team working to locate them. The association said it stands with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the wider maritime community in calling for greater protection of seafarers and an immediate end to attacks on merchant vessels. “On behalf of its Global Board and Secretariat, IBIA expresses its deepest sorrow for all those affected and extends its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the victims,” IBIA said. “These incidents are a tragic reminder that innocent seafarers continue to bear the human cost of geopolitical conflicts. Seafarers are civilians carrying out an essential service to the global economy and should never become victims of violence.” IBIA’s Board called on governments and the international community to take decisive action to prevent further loss of life, protect freedom of navigation, safeguard global trade and uphold international law. Alexander Prokopakis, Executive Director of IBIA , said: “Too often, seafarers become the forgotten victims of geopolitical conflicts in which they play no part. “I fully agree with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez that attacks on innocent seafarers and civilian shipping are totally unacceptable. The men and women serving at sea are not involved in these disputes. They are delivering energy, food and essential goods that keep economie