India Directs Shipowners Not to Deploy Indian Seafarers on Vessels Transiting Strait of Hormuz
India: Amid escalating tensions and recent attacks on commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf region, the Indian government has ordered shipowners, ship managers, and recruitment agencies not to deploy Indian seafarers on vessels undertaking voyages through the Strait of Hormuz until further notice.
The directive, issued late Wednesday by the Directorate General of Shipping, comes after two Indian seafarers were killed in separate attacks on vessels in the area over the past few days. The move aims to safeguard the lives of Indian mariners amid heightened security risks in one of the world’s most critical chokepoints for global oil trade.
“No deployment of Indian seafarers on vessels undertaking voyages involving passage through the Strait of Hormuz until further orders,” the order stated. It highlighted the “significantly” increased risks to seafarers and commercial ships due to ongoing conflicts in the region.
India is one of the world’s largest suppliers of seafarers, with over 300,000 Indian sailors serving on international merchant vessels. The advisory also urges vessel masters to maintain heightened vigilance, continuously monitor navigational warnings, and exercise caution in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and surrounding waters.
The decision follows strong diplomatic protests by New Delhi, including summoning Iran’s deputy ambassador over one of the recent seafarer deaths. Thousands of Indian seafarers remain in the broader region, raising concerns about crew rotations and evacuations.
This precautionary measure underscores India’s efforts to protect its maritime workforce while ensuring the safety of energy imports, as a significant portion of the country’s oil passes through the strategic waterway. Further updates are expected as the situation evolves.
