Heightened Gulf Security Risks Prompt Precautionary Measures to Protect Indian Seafarers

India Advises Ship Owners to Suspend Seafarer Deployment on Strait of Hormuz Routes.

The Government of India has advised ship owners, ship managers, and manning agencies to temporarily stop deploying Indian seafarers on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz until further notice. The advisory, issued by the Directorate General of Maritime Administration, comes amid escalating security concerns in the Persian Gulf following attacks on merchant ships, including Mombasa B, Al Bahyah, GFS Galaxy, MT WEDYAN, and AL REKAYYAT. Authorities cited increasing risks to Indian crew members and commercial shipping operations in the conflict-affected region. Ships already operating in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, and nearby waters have been instructed to maintain the highest level of security, closely monitor navigational warnings, and strictly implement Ship Security Plans (SSP) and ISPS Code guidelines. The precautionary measures are aimed at safeguarding the safety, security, and welfare of Indian seafarers while ensuring the protection of Indian-flagged vessels operating in high-risk maritime zones.