The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is monitoring the safety of 166 Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf and near the Strait of Hormuz due to rising maritime security threats. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that 125 seafarers are on Indian vessels, while 41 are on foreign ships, emphasizing ongoing safety concerns.
On Wednesday, President Trump warned Iran of severe consequences if they attacked ships in the Strait of Hormuz. He specifically mentioned targeting Iranian infrastructure like bridges and power plants. This statement escalates tensions, highlighting the U.S. response to Iranian aggression while commercial shipping activities face increased risks in the region.
Seven Indian-flagged vessels are currently navigating the Persian Gulf, continuing their operations amid rising regional tensions. Of these, five engage in commercial activities while two are container ships. Authorities emphasize heightened security protocols, advising crews to exercise caution, as concerns mount over Indian seafarers’ safety following recent maritime incidents.
The demand for ocean divers specializing in barnacle scraping has surged over 30-fold due to stranded ships in the Persian Gulf preparing to sail following a peace deal between the U.S. and Iran. Fees for this crucial service could rise to $8,000 per vessel, presenting lucrative opportunities for diving companies.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has urged fleet owners to limit Indian seafarer deployments in the Persian Gulf due to escalating attacks on vessels. Following the tragic loss of three Indian seafarers in a U.S. strike, the DGS recommended heightened vigilance and adherence to security protocols for ship captains in the region.
The Q1 2026 Seafarers Happiness Index reveals a troubling decline in seafarer well-being, dropping from 7.35 to 7.01 following conflict in the Persian Gulf. Conditions are dire, with food and water shortages reported. Workload management has worsened, and stagnant wages contribute to a looming recruitment crisis among younger seafarers.
An estimated 3,500 Filipino seafarers remain in the Persian Gulf, according to the Department of Migrant Workers. While 1,161 have successfully exited, many continue working aboard operational ships. The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed Iran’s assurance of safe passage for Philippine-flagged vessels amid rising regional tensions, prioritizing safety.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has proposed a voluntary evacuation plan for merchant ships stranded in the Persian Gulf. This initiative, responding to the IMO Council’s request, aims to ensure safe navigation while respecting international law. It will utilize established traffic lanes to streamline the evacuation process for affected vessels.
On April 22, 2026, Japan’s transport ministry confirmed that four crew members from Japan-related vessels stranded in the Persian Gulf have safely disembarked. This follows the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, affecting maritime operations. Currently, 16 Japanese nationals remain aboard 42 vessels in the region, as tensions persist.
The Aroya, a cruise ship operated in partnership with Cruise Saudi, recently navigated the Strait of Hormuz, joining five other vessels amid regional tensions. Acquired by Saudi Arabia in 2023, it marks the first large cruise ship owned by a Middle Eastern nation, set to resume service from Jeddah on May 14.
During a media briefing, Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, assured the safety of Indian seafarers in West Asia amid rising tensions. He stated that operations continue uninterrupted, emphasizing government efforts to monitor vessels and crews in the Persian Gulf to ensure their safety.
The Indian government reported that 16 Indian-flagged vessels, carrying 433 seafarers, are currently in the western Persian Gulf. The Directorate General of Shipping is monitoring the situation, ensuring safety. Over 1,599 seafarers have been repatriated, with operations at Indian ports running smoothly amid ongoing evacuations from the Gulf region.
All Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf are reported safe, with no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels in the last 24 hours, according to the Ministry of Ports. Currently, 17 Indian-flagged ships with 460 seafarers are present. The DG Shipping is monitoring the situation closely to ensure crew safety and operational continuity.
The global marine insurance market remains resilient, maintaining coverage for cargo, hull, liability, and offshore energy despite rising geopolitical tensions. Insurers are committed to supporting trade flows, even in high-risk areas, adapting to challenges with tailored solutions and flexible underwriting to address evolving risks while ensuring significant capacity remains available.
The Indian government reported that twenty Indian-flagged vessels with 540 seafarers are under surveillance in the Persian Gulf. The Ministry of Ports confirmed all seafarers are safe, with no incidents in the last 24 hours. Ongoing coordination with maritime stakeholders ensures their welfare and smooth port operations across India.
