The resurgence of Somali piracy has made the waters off the Horn of Africa increasingly dangerous for merchant shipping, despite a global decline in piracy incidents. In 2026, 105 crew members were threatened or harmed, with Somali pirates responsible for eight hijackings, underscoring the need for vigilance and adherence to safety practices.
Tehran has formally complained to the International Maritime Organization, accusing U.S. military forces of misusing VHF Channel 16. Iran alleges that these forces have transmitted threatening messages in Persian to Iranian seafarers, disrupting vital emergency communications and causing distress among civilian crews amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Piracy has fallen worldwide, but attacks off Somalia are rising and turning deadly. A piracy survival guide for seafarers: precautions before you sail, what to do if attacked, hostage dos and don’ts, and your rights while held.
Increased attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz and the Black Sea have put seafarers at growing risk. This guide explains your rights when sailing into war zones, including refusal options, extra pay, and protections under Indian law, IBF agreements, and the Maritime Labour Convention. Know your rights before you sail.
The crude oil tanker MT GEM No.2, with 22 Indian crew members, faced a drone attack while anchored in Sharjah, UAE, prompting swift reassurance from the Indian Government regarding the crew’s safety. The incident highlights the rising maritime threats in the Gulf and Black Sea, urging international collaboration for enhanced seafarer security.
Japanese shipping company NYK recently held a maritime emergency response drill in the Seto Inland Sea, simulating a bulk carrier grounding and fuel oil spill. The exercise, involving various organizations, tested response protocols, oil spill containment, and communication strategies, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in maritime operations for seafarers.
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.
Four Indonesian crew members from the MT Honour 25 returned home on October 6, 2026, after months of captivity following a hijacking off Somalia’s coast. Their safe return was made possible through diplomatic negotiations, highlighting the Indonesian government’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad and ensuring their well-being post-ordeal.
Amsol has reached out to the families of three seafarers whose bodies were recovered off Mossel Bay, and the families of two still missing. The incident occurred when a crew member fell overboard from the tug Umkhuseli, leading to a tragic rescue attempt that resulted in further casualties.
During the 18th BRICS Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced a Seafarers’ Emergency Support Network, aimed at protecting commercial mariners in crisis situations. This initiative, supported by industry leaders, seeks to enhance communication and assistance for seafarers navigating volatile regions, ensuring timely aid and reinforcing maritime trade security amid geopolitical tensions.
The Dutch Safety Board has launched an investigation into the tragic death of a crew member aboard a Dutch merchant vessel in the English Channel on September 11, 2026. The individual was found in the lower cargo hold after being reported missing, prompting a thorough inquiry to determine the incident’s circumstances and contributing factors.
India strongly condemned the attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers during the Gulf conflict at the UN General Assembly, calling such actions “simply unacceptable.” The External Affairs Minister urged all parties to exercise restraint, emphasizing the need to protect civilians and ensure the uninterrupted flow of energy and commerce.
The recently launched “Group of Friends on Safety & Security of Shipping & Seafarers,” co-chaired by India and Liberia, aims to enhance maritime safety. With representatives from 25 countries, the coalition seeks to combat piracy, protect commercial routes, and prioritize seafarers’ welfare in response to rising threats against global shipping.
During a recent UN Security Council meeting, India underscored that navigational rights must remain free from coercion and unlawful restrictions. Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni emphasized the importance of secure maritime routes for global peace and economic stability, highlighting the risks posed by attacks on seafarers and advocating for international cooperation in ensuring their safety.
On September 10, Operation ATALANTA responded to the hijacking of the Glamor, a merchant vessel off Yemen’s coast. The crew retreated to the citadel after disabling the ship. International forces, including a Japanese reconnaissance aircraft, deterred the pirates, leading to their abandonment of the hijacking attempt. All crew members were safe.
