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 Secretary-General welcomes US-Iran agreement

IMO adopts first global Code for autonomous ships

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

Revised rescue guide launched to safeguard life at sea

The IMO, UNHCR, and International Chamber of Shipping released a revised Rescue Guide to strengthen humanitarian and legal protections for refugees and migrants in distress at sea. The guide provides practical procedures for safe rescue and disembarkation under international law, emphasizing the duty to rescue without discrimination and protection from refoulement, available in six languages.

Statement on the attack on tanker MT Settebello