Approximately 50 Indian seafarers are stranded at Khorramshahr Port in Iran, urgently seeking repatriation amid missile attacks. In distressing videos, they flee from nearby bombings, pleading for government help. The Forward Seamen’s Union reports complications due to lack of visa information and unresponsive agents, exacerbating their dire situation.
Eight Indian seafarers finally returned home after a harrowing ordeal in Iran, sparked by accusations of fuel smuggling. Initially detained in December, their release was delayed amid escalating regional conflicts. The emotional toll remained profound, as personal lives were disrupted, highlighted by crew member Masood Alam’s postponed wedding.
India’s shipping ministry has successfully repatriated over 975 seafarers from West Asia amid regional tensions. In the last 24 hours, 11 were returned, showcasing the ministry’s crisis-response efficiency. Mukesh Mangal emphasized ongoing monitoring of 18 Indian-flagged vessels, ensuring crew safety and operational continuity amid distress situations.
The ongoing conflict in Iran has stranded over 20,000 seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz, facing dire conditions. While some supplies are preserved, securing fresh water remains a challenge. Attacks have led to malnourishment and illness, heightening vulnerability as crews request repatriation, prioritizing safety amid constant threats.
Indian seafarers in West Asia are reported safe, with no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels in the last 48 hours, according to the Shipping Ministry. Mukesh Mangal confirmed that 18 vessels and 485 crew members are under close observation, while port operations in India remain smooth, with no congestion reported.
The International Chamber of Shipping and the International Transport Workers’ Federation met with Gulf State representatives to address the severe impact of ongoing conflict on seafarers. With 20,000 stranded and facing dire conditions, discussions focused on urgent initiatives, including a reporting mechanism for resupply concerns and prioritizing seafarers as essential workers.
The lack of cooperation between labor organizations and ship owners jeopardizes seafarers’ safe return home. The ITF highlights the need for coordinated interventions, especially in high-risk areas like the Arabian Gulf. With a record 409 abandoned vessels in 2025, many seafarers face dire conditions, both physically and emotionally.
Amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf, the Indian government has confirmed the safety of all Indian seafarers, with no incidents reported recently. Eighteen vessels, crewed by 485 seafarers, are operating normally. Notably, two LPG carriers have successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring the flow of essential goods continues.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has granted a three-month extension for crew certificates, easing the burden on seafarers stranded in the Gulf. This decision addresses potential compliance issues amid heightened security and operational challenges. Additionally, safety training certificates will also see a similar extension, reflecting ongoing industry support.
On Monday, India reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of Indian seafarers amid ongoing Gulf tensions. A senior Ministry of External Affairs official emphasized the priority of safety for the Indian community. Continuous support and communication with seafarers and their families are being maintained, ensuring their well-being during this challenging period.
Cyprus has officially endorsed the International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers, as announced by the International Chamber of Shipping. This endorsement aligns Cyprus with other flag states, emphasizing the guide’s importance for the health and safety of maritime workers. Training institutions are advised to integrate it into medical courses.
The Indian government reported that twenty Indian-flagged vessels with 540 seafarers are under surveillance in the Persian Gulf. The Ministry of Ports confirmed all seafarers are safe, with no incidents in the last 24 hours. Ongoing coordination with maritime stakeholders ensures their welfare and smooth port operations across India.
Seafarers’ helplines report a surge in distress calls from crews trapped in the Gulf amid ongoing conflict. Many urgently seek repatriation, compensation, and essential supplies. Critical shortages of food and water are escalating health concerns onboard. The ITF has received over 1,000 communications, highlighting the dire situation faced by 20,000 stranded seafarers.
South Korean and Japanese coast guards have resumed a joint rescue operation for a missing Indonesian crew member near Dokdo Island. The individual fell overboard from a fishing vessel 195 kilometers northeast of Dokdo. The search involves multiple vessels and underscores the cooperation between the two nations in maritime safety efforts.
Parents of four Indian seafarers stranded on the DIVA near Basra, Iraq, are pleading with the government for urgent repatriation. The Forward Seamen’s Union of India has contacted External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, emphasizing the need for immediate evacuation due to the vessel’s proximity to active bombardment zones.
