Shipping Ministry 'closely monitoring' six Indian vessels, 166 seafarers to ensure their well-being near Hormuz: MEA

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that it is closely monitoring the status of six Indian-flagged vessels and the safety of 166 Indian seafarers currently operating in the Arabian Gulf and the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement comes amid heightened regional tensions and increased military activity in the waters surrounding the Gulf, prompting New Delhi to prioritize the security of its maritime personnel.

According to the Times of Oman, the Ministry is maintaining active communication channels to ensure the well-being of the crew members. The government has indicated that it is coordinating with relevant maritime authorities and stakeholders to track the movement of these vessels and provide necessary support should the security situation deteriorate further.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping artery, and the presence of Indian nationals in the region is significant due to the high volume of Indian maritime labor employed in the global shipping industry. The Ministry’s proactive monitoring reflects a broader effort by the Indian government to safeguard its citizens in conflict-prone zones.

As the situation in the region remains fluid, the Ministry of External Affairs continues to advise Indian vessels operating in the area to exercise caution and maintain contact with local maritime security agencies. Further updates are expected as the Ministry continues its assessment of the regional maritime security environment.