ISA Warns Deep-Sea Mining Supported by Trump Could Be Illegal, Risks Lawsuits

The Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) warned today that companies pushing for deep-sea mining projects supported by Donald Trump could face massive legal action, as such activities are considered 'illegal.' The UN-backed body is currently drafting the first set of rules for this controversial industry. Frustrated by the slow pace of the international legal framework, many companies have indicated they will bypass the ISA and start mining based on unverified US laws. ISA Secretary-General Leticia Carvalho stated she would 'firmly determine this to be illegal,' adding that no single entity has the right to unilaterally exploit resources in international waters. Dozens of countries, including the UK, France, and Germany, have called for a permanent or temporary ban on deep-sea mining until environmental concerns are addressed.