Indian seafarers face security risks in Persian Gulf

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has reported that 163 Indian seafarers are currently aboard 12 commercial vessels in the Persian Gulf, specifically west of the Strait of Hormuz. This group includes six India-flagged vessels and six foreign-flagged ships carrying cargo to India. Additionally, more than 4,500 Indian seafarers are operating on various other commercial vessels throughout the region.

The situation follows a recent maritime security incident where an Indian sailor was killed during an attack on the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged bulk carrier MV Cape Dao off the coast of Oman. The Royal Navy of Oman was involved in the evacuation of the surviving crew members following the attack.

India has expressed strong condemnation regarding attacks on seafarers and disruptions to navigation in international waterways. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has highlighted these incidents at the United Nations, noting that such attacks are no longer exceptional occurrences. India continues to monitor the movement of these ships through the Ministry of Shipping to ensure the welfare of its seafaring community.