India has confirmed the safety of 22 seafarers aboard two foreign-flagged ships targeted by Iran’s military in the Strait of Hormuz. The Ministry of Ports reported that the Panama-flagged container ships Euphoria and Epaminondas, carrying Indian crew members, are safe. The government is coordinating evacuations and ensuring the welfare of all nationals in the region.
In a historic milestone for India’s maritime industry, the M.V. Sindhu has set sail as the first Indian-flagged vessel commanded by a female Master and Pilot. Captain Meera Uppadhaya and Pilot Ms. Reshma Nilofer Visalakshi’s leadership marks a significant step toward gender equality in maritime roles, inspiring future generations.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has condemned recent attacks on civilian shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, calling for an end to using commercial vessels in warfare. ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton stressed that seafarers, particularly from the Global South, should not be treated as “pawns” in geopolitical conflicts.
French shipping giant CMA CGM has made headlines by reflagging its fifth container vessel under the Indian registry, underscoring India’s growth as a maritime hub. This milestone enhances logistical efficiency, offering benefits like priority berthing and improved connectivity, aligning with India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and broader national infrastructural initiatives.
A cargo ship leaving Somalia, the Turkish-owned Elfriede, reported being fired upon by a small boat, prompting its security team to return fire. This incident, the second potential piracy event this week, has led to heightened vigilance warnings for vessels near the Somali coast, particularly between Mogadishu and Hafun.
India’s shipping ministry is concerned for Indian seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz after reports of vessels being attacked. Fortunately, no Indian nationals have been injured. Mukesh Mangal confirmed that 22 Indian sailors were on board two targeted foreign-flagged ships, and 2,680 Indian seafarers have since been evacuated.
The Maharashtra Maritime Board has issued an RFP to select a project management consultant for the Mumbai Water Metro Phase 1, aimed at enhancing the city’s water transport. With an estimated cost of ₹1,621 crore, it will develop 16 routes and 26 terminals, expanding connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has issued a Recommendation to enhance safety standards for lifting appliances, aligning with SOLAS regulations. Effective January 1, 2026, these regulations will apply to new and existing equipment, addressing historical safety risks and promoting maritime safety through rigorous design and operational standards.
An estimated 3,500 Filipino seafarers remain in the Persian Gulf, according to the Department of Migrant Workers. While 1,161 have successfully exited, many continue working aboard operational ships. The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed Iran’s assurance of safe passage for Philippine-flagged vessels amid rising regional tensions, prioritizing safety.
The Andhra Pradesh government is enhancing its maritime infrastructure by developing four new ports, including Ramayapatnam and Mulapeta. This initiative aims to boost port capacity from 110 million tonnes to 400 million tonnes. A ₹2,000 crore loan from Sagarmala Finance Corporation Ltd will support these significant projects, ensuring continued progress.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that amidst rising tensions in the Persian Gulf, 10 Indian vessels have successfully exited the Strait of Hormuz, while 14 remain. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the government’s priority on the safety of Indian nationals and ongoing communication with Iranian authorities for secure passage.
The European Commission has launched a public consultation to shape the European Ocean Act, set for adoption in 2026. This legislation aims to improve ocean governance in the EU, addressing economic, environmental, and social objectives. Stakeholders can contribute until July 16, 2026, via a structured questionnaire, ensuring real-world needs are met.
Japan’s NYK Group has launched a lubricating oil analysis service to monitor ammonia-fueled engines, part of its push for alternative fuels in shipping. Developed by Nippon Yuka Kogyo, this service detects early engine abnormalities, enhancing reliability. Set to debut at Sea Japan on April 22, 2026, it supports NYK’s decarbonization strategy.
Two container ships have been seized by Iran near the Strait of Hormuz, with about 40 crew members aboard. Following a U.S. seizure of an Iranian vessel, armed personnel boarded the ships, which are now docked at Bandar Abbas. Negotiations are ongoing, impacting oil prices amid heightened regional tensions.
NiMiC Ship Management Co., Ltd., a Taiwan-based subsidiary of the NYK Group, has appointed Louise Lin as the captain of the Taitar No. 4, marking a historic milestone as the first woman to lead an LNG carrier within the NYK Group. Lin’s journey reflects significant progress for women in maritime.
