Our Bureau
New Delhi
India has intensified diplomatic engagement with Iran to secure the safe movement of nine Indian-linked merchant vessels carrying nearly 200 Indian seafarers that remain stranded near the Strait of Hormuz after maritime traffic in the region slowed dramatically amid heightened security concerns.
According to official sources, the vessels have been unable to transit through the strategic waterway as shipping activity has been severely disrupted due to US strikes on Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs, in coordination with the Indian Embassy in Tehran and other stakeholders, is maintaining close contact with Iranian authorities and shipping operators to ensure the safety and welfare of the crew members.
Officials said the stranded ships are carrying around 198 Indian seafarers. While no injuries or security incidents involving the Indian crew have been reported, authorities are closely monitoring developments as the vessels await clearance to resume their voyage. The government has also established regular communication with the ship management companies and families of the crew.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes, is one of the busiest and most strategically significant maritime routes globally. Any disruption to navigation in the narrow passage has immediate implications for international trade, energy supplies and shipping costs.
India has reiterated the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation and the safety of commercial shipping in international waters. Officials expressed hope that diplomatic engagement and coordination with regional authorities would facilitate the early movement of the stranded vessels while safeguarding the interests of Indian seafarers, who constitute one of the largest workforces in the global shipping industry.
