India, the world’s third-largest supplier of seafarers, has more than 300,000 sailors working on international shipping fleets. Government sources said that since the outbreak of the conflict in the Middle East in February this year, at least 13 Indian nationals have been killed in the Gulf region.
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) issued an order on Wednesday stating, “No deployment of Indian seafarers on vessels undertaking voyages involving passage through the Strait of Hormuz until further orders.”
The maritime regulator said through its official X handle that the decision was taken to protect the safety, security, and welfare of Indian seafarers amid a “significant” rise in risks faced by commercial vessels operating in the conflict-affected region.
The DGMA highlighted increased security threats involving commercial ships, including Mombasa B, Al Bahyah, GFS Galaxy, MT Wedyan, and Al Rekayyat, which have been operating in areas affected by escalating tensions.
“In view of the heightened security situation in the Persian Gulf region, the Directorate considers it necessary to adopt enhanced precautionary measures to safeguard the interests of Indian seafarers serving on board ships operating in the region,” the order stated.
The directive also instructed vessel masters to remain highly vigilant regarding the security situation in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, and surrounding waters. They were asked to ensure continuous monitoring of navigational warnings and maintain heightened awareness while operating in the sensitive maritime region.
For emergency assistance, the DGMA advised seafarers and vessels to immediately contact the DG Communication Centre (MMDAC) or the Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre—Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR).
The maritime authority said it is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in the Gulf region and remains committed to ensuring the safety, security, and welfare of Indian seafarers working on international vessels.
The Growing Security Challenge Around Hormuz
The advisory was issued amid rising tensions in the Middle East after United States strikes on Iranian military installations increased fears of a broader regional conflict and possible disruptions to shipping operations through the Strait of Hormuz.
Reports stated that the United States targeted Iran’s coastal defence and missile facilities on Wednesday after reintroducing a naval blockade on Iranian ports. In response, Iran threatened to restrict additional regional energy exports, stating that it was engaged in an existential war with the United States.
The latest directive underscores the growing risks faced by maritime workers operating in one of the world’s most critical shipping corridors and reflects India’s efforts to protect thousands of its citizens serving across global shipping networks during a period of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.
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