During the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar raised concerns about the safety of Indian seafarers in the Black Sea with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. This followed the tragic deaths of four Indian crew members from the MV Golden Leo, highlighting escalating regional tensions.
Ransom negotiations are ongoing for the release of 44 crew members from three vessels hijacked by Somali pirates. The oil tankers Honour 25 and Eureka, along with the cargo ship Sward, were seized in separate incidents off Somalia. Security concerns have risen, prompting shipping companies to avoid high-risk waters.
Iran has confirmed its intention to oversee maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, intensifying preparations for negotiations in Qatar aimed at resolving its conflict with the US. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi emphasized Iran’s desire for an agreement with Oman but warned of independent action if necessary.
A temporary vessel strike initially planned for April 12-15 was canceled by the union on April 8. However, a harbor employees’ strike is set for May 26-28, following a postponement from April 13. Eimskip remains optimistic about negotiations, aiming to minimize disruptions and maintain service continuity despite labor challenges.
On April 12, 2026, in the Strait of Hormuz, two empty crude tankers made abrupt U-turns amid collapsing US-Iran peace talks, endangering a fragile ceasefire. Meanwhile, the VLCC Mombasa B successfully navigated the route, highlighting the ongoing tensions that threaten vital maritime transport in this critical energy corridor.
India is working closely with Iranian officials to ensure the safe passage of 22 Indian-flagged merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, disrupted due to regional tensions. Special Secretary Rajesh Kumar Sinha confirmed that 611 Indian seafarers are being monitored, with recent shipments delivered without incident amid ongoing safety discussions.
India and Sri Lanka held the 13th edition of Navy Staff talks in Colombo, aiming to enhance maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. Co-chaired by Rear Admirals Maddula and Rupasena, discussions focused on reinforcing partnerships and exploring collaborative measures for anti-piracy and drug interdictions. Admiral Tripathi emphasized deeper cooperation and technological advancements.
