The recent phone call between National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Iran’s Mohsen Rezaei focused on the safety of Indian seafarers amid rising regional tensions. The dialogue came in light of attacks on commercial vessels, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced maritime security in critical routes like the Strait of Hormuz.
Omani authorities executed an emergency evacuation of an injured crew member from the merchant vessel JOHN K after a fire erupted in the engine room, approximately 44 nautical miles offshore. A Royal Air Force helicopter facilitated the transport to medical facilities. Meanwhile, UKMTO reported a projectile strike on another vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.
Oman has mandated that all foreign ships operating in its territorial waters keep their Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) activated at all times. This regulation, part of a broader framework, aims to enhance maritime security amid recent AIS anomalies and GNSS interference in the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring compliance with Omani laws.
Gulf oil exporters saw crude shipments return to pre-war levels throughout September, with an average of 18.6 million barrels per day. However, ongoing tanker attacks and logistical challenges threaten this output. Heightened maritime risks in the Strait of Hormuz raise concerns over potential disruptions to global oil supplies.
Currently, 163 Indian seafarers are aboard 12 vessels in the Persian Gulf, as reported by the Ministry of External Affairs. Six vessels are Indian-flagged, while the others are foreign-flagged, carrying cargo to India. The Ministry of Shipping is actively ensuring their safety and well-being amid regional tensions.
The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) reported three vessel attacks in the Strait of Hormuz this week, exacerbating risks to shipping in this vital corridor. Despite ongoing efforts to meet customer demands, ADNOC remains “significantly impacted” following a total of 15 attacks since conflict escalated, resulting in one fatality and 20 injuries.
The GasLog Shanghai, an LNG carrier, sustained damage while exiting the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, amid reports of two nearby security incidents. GasLog confirmed crew safety and vessel stability, activating emergency protocols. The nature and extent of the damage remain undisclosed as investigations into the incidents continue.
The Trump administration intensified efforts against Iran’s influence in the Strait of Hormuz by imposing sanctions on two organizations linked to its maritime activities. Targeting the Persian Gulf Marine Insurance Company and HormuzSafe Marine Services, these measures aim to disrupt Iran’s control over shipping and its financing of terrorism, highlighting ongoing tensions.
