The Directorate General of Maritime Affairs (DGMA) convened a stakeholder meeting at Reliance Corporate Park to discuss the International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds. Representatives from various sectors emphasized India’s pivotal role as the largest contributor, stressing the need for effective coordination and robust international agreements to enhance compensation and environmental safeguards.
India has condemned the recent attack on the Panama-flagged vessel MT On Peace in the Strait of Hormuz, which injured 12 crew members, including 11 Indians. The Ministry of External Affairs stressed the urgent need to stop such assaults, emphasizing their impact on civilian safety and maritime security amidst rising tensions.
Indonesia’s Ambassador to Kenya and Somalia, Witjaksono Adji, confirmed that the nation did not comply with any demands from the hijackers during the rescue of the MT Honour 25 crew. He emphasized that while diplomatic efforts were prioritized, direct negotiations were avoided to prevent encouraging further hijackings and violating international regulations.
For over a year, the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) has fought for vulnerable foreign seafarers on cruise ships, which exploit a legal loophole to evade Australian labor laws. Despite new requirements aimed at protecting seafarers’ rights, the MUA remains skeptical, citing ongoing abuse and mistreatment akin to modern slavery.
Gujarat Maritime University has initiated a two-week capacity-building program on Maritime Law, Governance, and Administration for senior officers of the Directorate General of Maritime Administration. Led by Dr. Justice Kaushal J. Thaker, the program aims to enhance understanding of legal frameworks, preparing participants for emerging challenges in India’s maritime sector.
India is actively monitoring the safety of over 4,500 Indian seafarers operating in the Persian Gulf, including 163 aboard 12…
Iran and Oman have introduced a framework to enhance navigation safety in the Strait of Hormuz, featuring a temporary shipping corridor and joint mine-clearing efforts. The agreement aims to address recent disruptions to commercial shipping and includes plans for future technical negotiations, promoting regional collaboration and compliance with international law.
INTERCARGO mourns the loss of a seafarer aboard the MINOAN DIGNITY, attacked in the Strait of Hormuz on August 17, 2026. This tragedy underscores the perils faced by maritime workers, who play vital roles in global trade. The organization calls for the protection of civilian seafarers amidst geopolitical conflicts.
On August 16, Arab nations condemned an attack on a UAE oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. Bahrain and Kuwait labeled the strike a violation of international law, threatening maritime security. They urged the UN Security Council to ensure navigation safety and called for Iran to halt its assaults on commercial vessels.
In a crucial diplomatic meeting, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar urged Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to prevent attacks on commercial shipping. This appeal highlights India’s commitment to maritime security amid rising tensions, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding trade routes and the safety of its citizens abroad.
The global shipping industry is alarmed by rising risks to seafarers amid geopolitical conflicts. Notable associations like ICS and INTERCARGO urge respect for international law and protection of merchant vessels. Increasing attacks in areas like the Strait of Hormuz threaten not only trade but the safety of innocent seafarers.
INTERCARGO has observed a concerning increase in attacks on merchant vessels, marking a shift towards targeting commercial shipping directly. This trend poses significant risks to seafarers, who are vital to global trade. We urge governments and international bodies to take action to protect civilian shipping and ensure crew safety.
Vanuatu is enhancing its maritime security framework with support from an International Maritime Organization (IMO) assessment mission. Conducted from July 20-24, the mission focused on implementing the ISPS Code at Port Vila and Luganville, evaluating national security arrangements and providing recommendations to strengthen maritime governance and safety measures.
