DESGAGNÉS has successfully repatriated three trainees from the Institut maritime du Québec, stranded in the Persian Gulf since February 28. Amid security uncertainties, a coordinated effort with local maritime agents and Saudi authorities ensured their safe return to Canada. IMQ provided crucial support, addressing the trainees’ needs during this challenging period.
In Progreso, Mexico, volunteers loaded boats with essential supplies for Cuba, facing severe economic challenges from U.S. oil restrictions. The grassroots initiative, named “Nuestra America Convoy,” encourages global support for the island. Marisela Vega noted increased donations, as awareness of Cuba’s plight grows, showcasing solidarity amid rising tensions between nations.
The maritime sector is operating smoothly, with no port congestion reported. Authorities are ensuring the safety of seafarers and the uninterrupted flow of trade, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz. Currently, 22 Indian-flagged vessels are in the Persian Gulf, and all Indian seafarers are safe.
Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) has hired a salvage firm to address the drifting Russian LNG carrier, Arctic Metagaz. Abandoned since a March explosion, the vessel poses environmental and safety risks as it nears Libya’s coastline. Authorities are racing to stabilize it amid fears of gas release and pollution.
On March 21, 2026, Bloomberg reported a significant decrease in Iran’s maritime threats in the Strait of Hormuz after a US military operation targeted key facilities. Admiral Brad Cooper emphasized the ongoing efforts to neutralize Iranian capabilities and highlighted disruptions in shipping traffic, which have led to rising global energy prices.
The Bombay High Court has allowed the owners of three ships seized by the Indian Coast Guard to deliver essential supplies to their crew. The vessels were detained for suspected illegal petroleum transfers. The court’s ruling ensures crew members receive necessary provisions while investigations into the alleged smuggling continue.
India’s freight forwarding industry is alarmed by soaring War Risk Surcharges (WRS) imposed by international shipping lines on Gulf-bound cargo. The Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI) has urged intervention from the Ministry of Ports, highlighting potential profiteering as exporters face increased financial strain and significant disruptions.
Eight Indian seafarers returned to Mumbai after surviving a missile attack on their oil tanker, Sky Light, near Oman. Stranded for over a week, they lost all belongings in the fire. Now, grappling with trauma and uncertainty, they contemplate leaving the profession for the safety of their families.
On Friday, the U.S. Treasury’s OFAC introduced a general license allowing the sale and delivery of Iranian crude oil already loaded onto vessels. This aims to relieve global energy market strain amid Middle East conflicts. The measure permits oil transactions without new purchases, maintaining sanctions on Iran’s revenue and specific regions.
India has significantly enhanced its naval presence in the Gulf of Oman, deploying over six warships under Operation Sankalp to escort Indian-flagged carriers through the Strait of Hormuz. This expansion aims to safeguard maritime interests while addressing humanitarian concerns for stranded merchant ships amid rising energy security risks.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal gathered shipping and trade leaders in Mumbai on March 19 to discuss the impact of disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz on Indian maritime operations. The meeting revealed a significant reduction in export backlog at Jawaharlal Nehru Port, though full normalization remains a challenge amid ongoing tensions.
In a bold move, the Indian government has enacted the Petroleum and Natural Gas (Furnishing of Information) Order 2026, requiring real-time data sharing from the oil and gas sector under the Essential Commodities Act. This mandates all stakeholders to submit sensitive operational information, overriding confidentiality agreements to bolster national security amid energy reliance.
The Indian government assured that fuel supplies remain stable amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Officials confirmed refineries are operating at full capacity, with no shortages in petrol or diesel. Domestic LPG production has surged by 40%, alleviating panic. Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf are reported safe.
Seafarers trapped in the Gulf are enduring severe conditions, rationing food and water as they await supplies amid Iran’s blockade. An Indian sailor reported dwindling drinking water, resorting to boiling what little they have left. With crew members departing, remaining sailors face increasing uncertainty, heightening the urgency for timely provisions.
Iranian officials are hesitant to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz, focusing instead on US-Israeli military actions. Attacks on energy infrastructure and the assassination of notable figures hinder shipping resumption. Consequently, oil prices soared, aggravating economic concerns amid a potential US troop deployment, escalating tensions and complicating international relations.
