DeBriefed 5 June 2026: UK eyes 2040 emissions cut | US ‘dismantling’ oceans research | China’s solar slump

No safe passage: Strait of Hormuz remains highly volatile

IMO treaty on hazardous and noxious cargo to enter into force in 2027

The 2010 HNS Convention enters into force on 29 November 2027, establishing the first international liability and compensation regime for maritime accidents involving hazardous and noxious substances. Covering over 2,000 substances including chemicals, oils, acids, and alternative fuels transported by ~65,000 ships, it imposes strict liability on shipowners requiring certified insurance and creates an HNS Fund (capped at 250 million SDR/~USD 360 million) financed by cargo receivers to compensate victims.

IMO adopts first global Code for autonomous ships

The IMO adopted the MASS Code, a non-mandatory international framework effective 1 July 2026 for autonomous and remotely operated cargo ships. It establishes goal-based safety, security and environmental standards equivalent to conventional vessels, requiring compliance with SOLAS, cybersecurity measures, remote operations centres, risk assessment and human oversight. A mandatory version is targeted for adoption by 1 July 2030.

Revised rescue guide launched to safeguard life at sea

IMO, UNHCR, and ICS released a revised Rescue Guide to strengthen humanitarian and legal obligations for rescuing refugees and migrants in distress at sea. The guide provides practical procedures for safe disembarkation in accordance with international law, emphasizing the duty to rescue without discrimination and ensuring protection from refoulement, available in six languages for shipmasters and maritime agencies.

IMO Secretary-General welcomes US-Iran agreement