India Suspends Deployment of Seafarers in Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

In a significant move reflecting the escalating geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region, India has officially prohibited the deployment of its seafarers on vessels navigating through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. This directive was issued by the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) on Thursday, amid escalating concerns following a spate of attacks on commercial shipping in the area, particularly linked to heightened friction between the United States and Iran.

The DGMA, the principal maritime regulatory body under the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, has reached out to ship owners, managers, and recruitment and placement service license (RPSL) companies, urging them to refrain from assigning Indian crew members to ships traversing this critical waterway. The directive also stresses the need for enhanced security measures for vessels operating not only in the Strait of Hormuz but also in the wider Persian Gulf region. Shipping companies have been instructed to closely adhere to navigational warnings, security advisories, and the protocols outlined in the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.

This precautionary measure comes on the heels of a heartbreaking incident involving an Indian seafarer who was reported missing after a Cyprus-flagged ship was struck while transiting the Strait. While family members have stated that the seafarer has tragically passed away, the Indian government has yet to confirm these claims, further highlighting the risks faced by personnel in this volatile maritime zone.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil passes, has witnessed rising tensions and incidents of aggression in recent months. The situation remains fluid, with the DGMA emphasizing its commitment to closely monitor the evolving security context and the implications for Indian maritime stakeholders.

As this situation develops, Indian authorities are likely to continue evaluating their policies and ensuring the safety of their citizens employed in maritime roles abroad. The government’s proactive stance in addressing these dangers is a testament to its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Indian seafarers amid increasingly precarious global maritime conditions.

Source: scroll.in