Bhubaneswar, March 13 -- Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, repeated attacks on commercial vessels have raised serious concerns about global maritime trade. Over the past 11 days, as many as 18 cargo ships have reportedly come under attack, with several vessels damaged in what has been described as Iran's aggressive strikes during the ongoing regional conflict.

An Odia merchant navy officer, Amit Swain, has shared his experience after witnessing the developments at sea. Swain, who hails from the Rajabagicha area of Cuttack, is associated with a cargo vessel linked to the ship Safeen Prize. According to him, he was sailing on the sister ship of Safeen Prize when the attacks occurred in the region.

Swain said vessels usually tak...