Deonandan Prasad Singh, a 55-year-old seafarer from Mumbai, tragically lost his life in a tanker attack near Basra, Iraq. Just before his voyage on MT Safesea Vishnu, he was called to join the crew. Singh’s family suspects understaffing led to the last-minute decision, leaving them in shock over his death.
The Director General of Shipping, alongside the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian embassy in Baghdad, is facilitating the repatriation of Deonandan Prasad Singh, a 54-year-old engineer who died during an attack on the oil tanker MT Safesea Vishnu. His body is expected to return to India next week.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha from the Shipping Ministry announced the safe return of 30 seafarers from Gulf airports, raising total repatriations to 253. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to supporting its maritime workforce during challenging times, while ensuring uninterrupted operations at major ports through prioritized berthing of LPG carriers from global locations.
The Liberian Registry is launching electronic seafarer documents to enhance digital verification and regulatory compliance. Featuring QR codes for authenticity, this initiative aims to reduce fraudulent credentials and streamline inspections. The introduction of the SEA360 mobile app will allow seafarers to access their documents securely, boosting confidence in their credentials.
Indian seafarers face a dire situation, with about 1,000 stranded in Iran amid escalating US-Israel-Iran tensions. Videos reveal sailors pleading for help, highlighting dwindling food and water supplies. FSUI’s Manoj Yadav reports fear and frustration over lack of support, as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz worsens their plight.
The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) has raised concerns over escalating security issues in the Gulf waters and the Strait of Hormuz. Emphasizing the safety of seafarers, INTERCARGO convened an emergency briefing on March 11, addressing recent attacks on vessels that resulted in tragic fatalities and expressing condolences to affected families.
Eight Indian seafarers who survived a missile attack on the oil tanker Sky Light near Khasab port in Oman are set to return home after completing their travel documentation. The attack, which resulted in one death and another missing crew member, left them stranded without essential documents for 12 days.
A US-owned oil tanker, the Safesea Vishnu, was attacked near Basra, Iraq, resulting in the death of an Indian crew member. Another vessel, the Malta-flagged Zefyros, was also targeted. The incident prompted the suspension of operations at Iraqi oil terminals amid rising security concerns, while commercial ports remain operational.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that Filipino crew members on two vessels attacked near the Strait of Hormuz are safe. DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac reported that 21 Filipino sailors were on one ship and 17 on another, both now heading to safer ports amid rising regional tensions.
Seafarers docking at Ukrainian ports will now receive specialized safety kits from the maritime charity Stella Maris. These kits, funded by Den Norske Krigsforsikring for Skib, include vital first aid supplies and emergency procedures, addressing the urgent needs of crews amidst rising geopolitical tensions and potential threats from missile and drone attacks.
Eight Indian seafarers, stranded after a missile attack on the oil tanker Sky Light near Oman, are awaiting emergency travel documents. The attack, linked to the Iran-Israel conflict, claimed the life of their captain and left one crew member missing. Their lost documents hinder their return home, intensifying their anxiety.
On March 11, 2026, the White House Maritime Action Plan will reform the renewal process for Merchant Mariner Credentials, eliminating the cumbersome Documents of Continuity. This change aims to reintegrate experienced mariners into the workforce, removing barriers that have kept many qualified individuals from returning, thus bolstering America’s maritime ambitions.
Human Rights at Sea emphasizes the urgent need to protect seafarers amid escalating military conflicts in the Middle East. Founder David Hammond highlights the plight of maritime workers, particularly Chief Mate Ali Albokhari, imprisoned in Turkey. His case exemplifies systemic issues affecting seafarers, urging sustained commitment to their humanitarian rights.
Mental health professionals warn that the maritime industry must dismantle barriers for women at sea to retain future talent. Celebrating International Women’s Day, experts highlighted the unique challenges female seafarers face, including intense pressure to prove themselves while balancing family obligations and combating stereotypes, which can severely impact their mental health.
The Philippines has confirmed that a Filipino seafarer is missing after an attack on a tugboat near the Strait of Hormuz. The government is providing support to the family while ensuring the safety of the seafarer’s colleagues. Authorities are monitoring the well-being of 6,400 Filipino seafarers in the region.
