The Directorate General of Shipping reported on Monday that three Indian seafarers have died and one was injured due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. While specific details about the incidents were not disclosed, the Directorate confirmed that the individuals were aboard foreign-flagged vessels. Importantly, there have been no verified reports of casualties or hostile actions against Indian-flagged ships.
Monitoring maritime security in the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters has become a priority for the Directorate, especially amid rising tensions involving Israel, the United States, and Iran. The region has seen threats such as missile and drone attacks and electronic interference, raising concerns about the safety of vessels operating there. Recent military actions, including a joint operation by Israel and the U.S. targeting Iranian capabilities, have further escalated the situation.
In retaliation, Iran has threatened shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that any vessel attempting to transit this crucial waterway would face attack. Reports indicate that the strait has been closed to shipping, with Iranian forces prepared to act against any violators.
Additionally, an Indian mariner aboard a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker was killed in a drone strike off the coast of Oman, marking the first reported Indian casualty linked to the conflict. Another incident involved a Palau-flagged oil tanker, which was struck off Oman, injuring four crew members, including 15 Indians. All crew members were safely evacuated.
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