The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated tensions in the region, impacting international shipping. A recent attack by Houthi rebels on the Dutch-flagged cargo ship Minervagracht highlights the growing threat posed by these Iranian-backed forces, raising concerns about maritime safety and potential disruptions in global trade routes.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) is calling on UAE maritime authorities to assist 19 stranded seafarers in the Persian Gulf. These crew members, primarily from India, face dire conditions aboard an oil tanker due to fake contracts and lack of insurance, having been trapped for 15 months beyond the Maritime Labour Convention’s limits.
The Telangana Overseas Manpower Company Limited (TOMCOM) is inviting applications from Indian male professionals in Gulf countries for marine sector roles in Qatar, including ship chandler and senior marine technician. Salaries range from Rs 1.06 to 1.23 lakh per month, with additional performance-based incentives. Interested candidates can apply via email.
Oman is set to establish the Middle East’s first LNG bunkering facility at the Port of Sohar, following the groundbreaking of the $1.6 billion Marsa LNG plant. This project, a collaboration between TotalEnergies and OQEP, aims to position Oman as a key LNG hub, with operations expected to begin in early 2028.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards seized two foreign tankers in the Persian Gulf for smuggling over 3 million liters of diesel fuel. The vessels, with 25 crew members, were caught in organized fuel smuggling. The nationality of the tankers and status of the detained crew members were not disclosed.
The UKMTO reported an incident 82 nautical miles south of Yemen’s Aden, where Houthi militia, aligned with Iran, have been attacking ships in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Authorities are investigating the incident, as the militants continue launching drone and missile strikes in the region, impacting shipping routes and raising fears of further conflict.
