New Delhi, July 18: The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Friday that 14 Indian sailors have lost their lives amid escalating tensions in West Asia, with two still reported missing.
During a regular press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the significant number of Indian sailors working in the region. Ensuring their safety and providing timely warnings about potential threats remain top priorities for the government.
Referring to an advisory issued by the Directorate General of Shipping, Jaiswal stated, “I have seen that advisory. As you know, the situation in West Asia remains unstable, which prompted this guidance. A large number of Indian sailors are employed in this area, and ensuring their safety is our responsibility. While I do not have the exact number of affected sailors at this moment, it is confirmed that 14 Indians have died, and two are still missing.”
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has instructed ship owners, management companies, and Recruitment and Placement Service License (RPSL) companies not to deploy Indian sailors on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz until further notice. This decision comes in light of increasing security threats in the Gulf region.
The maritime regulator stated on the social media platform ‘X’ that this measure is taken with the safety, rescue, and welfare of Indian sailors in mind, as commercial vessels in conflict zones are facing continuous attacks.
According to DGMA, the risk to sailors and vessels has significantly increased following recent attacks on commercial ships such as Mombasa B, Al Bahya, GFS Galaxy, MT Vedyan, and Al Rekayyat.
This advisory comes at a time when tensions in the Middle East are on the rise. Following U.S. strikes on Iranian military bases, fears of a larger conflict have escalated, raising concerns about the impact on maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz.
On Tuesday, India reiterated that the movement of ships in the Strait of Hormuz should remain safe and uninterrupted. India asserts that the smooth operation of trade through this vital maritime route is crucial for the economies and energy security of countries worldwide.
Randhir Jaiswal noted that India is continuously monitoring the situation in West Asia. He also urged all parties to de-escalate tensions and seek resolutions through dialogue and diplomacy to maintain peace and stability in the region.
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