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 Sunday, the Indian government urged citizens to assess security conditions before accepting jobs in conflict-affected maritime zones, particularly the Black Sea. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted risks from missile and drone strikes, following recent incidents that resulted in the deaths of five Indian nationals aboard commercial vessels.
The United Nations has urged Gulf nations to aid in evacuating around 6,000 seafarers stranded in conflict zones due to escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran. U.N. High Commissioner Volker Türk highlighted the urgent need for collaboration to ensure the safety of these maritime workers amid ongoing hostilities.
The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) has welcomed a second group of 24 trainees for the GP Rating and Certificate Course in Maritime Catering onboard the MV Swaraj Dweep. This initiative, part of the Structured Onboard Training Programme by the Ministry of Ports, aims to enhance maritime training and employability.
During the 21st East Asia Summit, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar urged for dialogue to resolve the West Asia conflict, emphasizing the need for safety in international waterways. He condemned attacks on seafarers and stressed that international law must govern maritime operations, highlighting the global economy’s vulnerability amid rising tensions.
The High Commission of India in Accra has successfully repatriated nine Indian crew members from the M/V Rahaf Moon, who had been stranded in Ghana. This operation exemplifies effective diplomatic efforts, showcasing collaboration with the Ghana Maritime Authority and other partners to ensure the crew’s safe return to India on July 23, 2026.
Women make up just 1% of the global seafarer workforce, a statistic that has seen little improvement despite industry commitments to diversity. A recent survey of shipping leaders highlights ongoing challenges, particularly an aging workforce and the urgent need for trained crews. Enhanced welfare and training programs aim to attract more women.
In response to rising maritime tensions in West Asia, India has implemented real-time tracking for its seafarers in the Gulf region. This initiative, prompted by missile attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, aims to enhance safety measures and ensure swift intervention during emergencies, reflecting New Delhi’s commitment to maritime security.
In response to recent attacks on commercial ships in West Asia, Indian Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has directed the Directorate General of Shipping to establish an operational dashboard for tracking vessels with Indian crews. This initiative aims to ensure real-time monitoring of ships in critical regions, enhancing safety and welfare for seafarers.
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.
Tensions surged as Iran attacked Gulf states and closed the Strait of Hormuz, retaliating against U.S. strikes. Oman condemned drone assaults, successfully rescuing 23 crew members from a commercial vessel. The Indian Embassy confirmed ten nationals were among those saved, underscoring concerns over escalating maritime violence in the region.
Raman Kapoor, an Indian captain, described seafarers as “pawns,” highlighting society’s neglect of their struggles until tragedies occur. His ship was stranded in the Persian Gulf for over two months, reflecting the dire situation for many. With rising tensions and fatalities among Indian seafarers, Kapoor’s frustrations resonate deeply within the maritime community.
The ITF has highlighted another crew abandonment case involving the general cargo ship Lady Mina. The crew, owed $68,000, has been working beyond their contracts since May 2026. Despite serious deficiencies and expired contracts, the shipowner has failed to repatriate the remaining seafarers, prompting legal action and vessel detention.
Approximately 6,000 seafarers are currently stranded on numerous vessels in the Gulf, as reported by the head of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Arsenio Dominguez has called for all involved parties to exercise restraint and work towards de-escalation amidst rising tensions. Dominguez condemned recent attacks on ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz.
As of Tuesday, 50 ships have navigated the Strait of Hormuz since the West Asia conflict began on February 28. Currently, nine Indian vessels are operational in the Persian Gulf, carrying 198 Indian seafarers. Experts warn that regular shipping operations may take time to resume in the region.
