New Delhi, Sept. 12 -- At least 173 Indian seafarers remain stranded aboard vessels in the Persian Gulf amid continuing attacks on commercial shipping linked to the escalating conflict in West Asia. The latest incidents involving three more vessels have heightened concerns over the safety of Indian crew members operating in the region.
The situation has emerged as maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters faces growing risks. The strategic waterway is a major route for global energy supplies, and repeated attacks on commercial vessels have disrupted normal shipping operations.
India has been closely monitoring the situation and has been pressing for the safety of its citizens and uninterrupted maritime commerce. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently raised the issue of freedom of navigation and the safety and welfare of seafarers during his meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi.
The latest attacks come amid a broader escalation in the region, with commercial vessels facing threats while attempting to navigate waters around the Strait of Hormuz. The United States has also adjusted its maritime protection arrangements, asking tankers seeking military air defence coverage to travel during specified time windows.
The security situation has also worsened around the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb, where Iran-aligned Houthi forces have recently captured the strategic Mayun Island. The development has raised further concerns about disruptions to international shipping and energy supplies.
For India, the safety of seafarers has become a major concern as hundreds of Indian nationals work aboard commercial vessels operating in and around the Gulf region. New Delhi has consistently maintained that maritime routes must remain open and that civilian shipping and crews should be protected.
The continued attacks are also threatening global trade and energy flows, as shipping companies face difficult decisions over whether to enter or remain in high-risk waters. Any prolonged disruption could affect freight movement, insurance costs and the transportation of crude oil and other essential commodities.
The latest developments have added urgency to India's diplomatic efforts to protect its citizens and ensure safe maritime passage amid the continuing regional conflict.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.