Indian seafarers safety in Red Sea

India’s maritime authorities reported a sharp escalation in threats to Indian‑flagged vessels in the Red Sea and Black Sea. By early August, 15 Indian seafarers had been killed and 13 rescued after the Indian vessel MSV Faize Noore Oliya was struck by an explosives‑laden boat, an incident blamed on Houthi‑aligned forces. The Directorate General of Maritime Administration highlighted a surge in drone and missile attacks, piracy off Somalia, and a resurgence of Houthi activity, warning of rising logistics costs and heightened risks for Indian crews.

In response, the Ministry of External Affairs activated round‑the‑clock helplines at Indian diplomatic missions across the Gulf to support ships and crews. The ministry coordinated with the Ministry of Shipping and local maritime authorities, emphasizing that safe navigation is a high priority and urging all parties to refrain from targeting civilian vessels. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh and Yemeni authorities were kept informed of the incident, and the government pledged continued agency action to protect Indian seafarers.