The U.S. Treasury Department has issued a sanctions wind-down authorization allowing Russian oil vessels at sea to complete their journeys amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. This license enables necessary transactions for loaded cargoes and supports essential maritime services, despite restrictions on Iran-related transactions. Effective until April 11.
Thailand’s Foreign Ministry has formally requested an apology from Iran after a Thai vessel was struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on March 11. The incident, which resulted in a fire and forced the crew to evacuate, has raised diplomatic tensions, prompting Thailand to seek clarification from Iran.
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.
Swedish authorities have boarded the oil tanker Sea Owl I in the Baltic Sea, suspecting it operates under a false flag. The intervention, part of increasing maritime enforcement, raises concerns about the vessel’s seaworthiness and registration under the Comorian flag, which is unverified. Investigations are ongoing regarding its legal status.
A senior official has confirmed that the oil tanker Jag Prakash, one of 28 Indian-flagged vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, has successfully departed. It was transporting gasoline from Oman to Africa and is expected to reach Tanga, Tanzania, on March 21 amid escalating regional tensions.
The sail-powered cruise ship Orient Express Corinthian has successfully completed propulsion tests, achieving remarkable speeds for its size. Set to enter service in May 2026, this 25,200 gross ton vessel features 54 suites for 110 passengers and utilizes an innovative Solid Sail system, distinguishing it in the luxury cruise market.
A Turkish-owned ship, the Rozana, has successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz after receiving Iranian permission, as confirmed by Turkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu. Amid ongoing tensions, discussions continue regarding 14 other Turkish vessels awaiting passage. The situation has led to significant flight cancellations by Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines.
At the Women Forward Summit, Melina Travlos highlighted the critical need for gender equality in various sectors, particularly in the male-dominated shipping industry. She urged a shift in mindset to ensure equal opportunities for women, emphasizing their significant contributions and advocating for greater visibility in both maritime professions and society at large.
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.
The Goa Maritime Officers Association has urged the government to establish a Mercantile Marine Department office in Vasco, highlighting the need for local certification services. Currently, seafarers must travel outside Goa for these facilities. The association also proposed a Goa Maritime Bhavan and Convention Centre to centralize maritime activities.
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.
Three Indian seafarers have tragically died, one is missing, and four others are injured in recent maritime incidents involving foreign-flagged vessels amid the Iran conflict. Rajesh Kumar Sinha from the Shipping Ministry confirmed that 70 out of 78 seafarers aboard escaped unharmed, while the government monitors the situation closely.
Norway has banned its merchant vessels from entering the Strait of Hormuz due to escalating attacks amidst the U.S.–Iran conflict. This significant shift from advisory status to an outright prohibition reflects a critical security threat level. The ban impacts global oil shipments, with vessels assessing their own operational risks before deciding to stay or leave.
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.
