The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has issued guidance to shipping companies and maritime recruitment agencies, urging them to limit the deployment of Indian seafarers in conflict areas of the Middle East until further notice. This directive follows the recent tragic incident where three Indian seafarers lost their lives in a US military strike on the MT Settebello near the Oman coast. Vessels in the Gulf region, including the Strait of Hormuz, are advised to maintain heightened security measures and closely monitor security alerts.
The DGS emphasized the need for companies to exercise caution and avoid sending Indian seafarers to conflict zones unless in emergency situations with crew consent. Recent security incidents in the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz involving Indian seafarers have raised concerns about the safety of commercial ships in the region. The DGS is working closely with relevant authorities to ensure the well-being and security of Indian seafarers amidst escalating risks in the area.
In response to the escalating tensions, India has lodged a strong protest against the US military attack on a commercial vessel off the Oman coast, resulting in the deaths of three Indian crew members. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed his disapproval of such actions, emphasizing that lethal attacks on commercial shipping are unwarranted. Jaishankar also engaged with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to voice India’s concerns over the tragic incident and seek accountability for the loss of Indian lives.
