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.
The Sailors’ Society has launched an emergency appeal for seafarers impacted by the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz. CEO Sara Baade highlighted the plight of innocent crew members, like 25-year-old Dalip, who lost his life in a missile strike. The charity urgently seeks donations to support affected families.
In the past 24 hours, the Indian Shipping Ministry reported no incidents involving Indian ships or seafarers, confirming the safety of all 540 crew members in the Persian Gulf. This announcement aims to alleviate concerns amid rising maritime tensions, highlighting the government’s commitment to protecting its maritime workforce and ensuring their safety.
A joint maritime operation by Iran and Oman has successfully reached the damaged Thai-flagged vessel Mayuree Naree in the Strait of Hormuz. While 20 crew members evacuated, three remain unverified aboard the ship. Thailand’s Foreign Minister seeks updates on their safety and emphasizes the nation’s neutrality in regional conflicts.
On March 25, 2026, the Myanmar Seafarers Federation (MSF) announced a survey to assess the experiences of seafarers and their families regarding social development. Captain Soe Min Aung highlighted the importance of understanding seafarers’ needs, particularly concerning collective bargaining agreements and employment contracts, to enhance their rights and protections.
A new pilot program aims to revolutionize the maritime sector by introducing digital identity systems for seafarers, replacing traditional paper verification. Launched by SITA, Columbia Shipmanagement, and IDsure, this initiative will streamline identity checks and enhance operational efficiency, marking a significant step toward digital transformation in maritime operations.
BIMCO has launched “Seafarers Deserve Fairer Seas,” a film highlighting the urgent need for better protections for the global maritime workforce. Coinciding with a position paper on maritime workforce sustainability, the initiative addresses the challenges faced by seafarers, particularly amidst geopolitical tensions and rising mental strain due to current crises.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) chief has raised urgent concerns about seafarer safety in the Persian Gulf. Amid rising geopolitical tensions, it’s crucial to protect these workers. Enhanced oversight of flag states is vital to ensure compliance with maritime safety regulations, safeguarding both seafarers and shipping operations globally.
