Amid rising tensions between the United States and Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, the Indian government has taken a significant step to safeguard thousands of Indian seafarers working on commercial ships in the Gulf region. On 16 July 2026, India’s maritime authorities issued an advisory directing shipping companies to avoid deploying Indian sailors on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz until further notice. The move comes after recent attacks in the region resulted in the deaths of Indian seafarers and increased concerns over maritime security.
Why India Issued the Advisory
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) instructed shipowners, ship managers, and Recruitment and Placement Service Licence (RPSL) agencies not to assign Indian seafarers to ships that are scheduled to sail through the Strait of Hormuz. Officials said the advisory is purely precautionary and aims to protect Indian nationals from the escalating security risks in one of the world’s busiest shipping routes.
What Triggered the Decision?
The decision follows a series of military confrontations between the US and Iran that have intensified the security situation in the Persian Gulf. Recent attacks on merchant vessels in the region led to the deaths of two Indian sailors, prompting India to strengthen protective measures for its maritime workforce. The government also lodged diplomatic concerns following one of the fatalities and has continued monitoring the situation closely.
Importance of the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. It connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, allowing nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies to pass through the narrow shipping lane. Any disruption in this region can affect international trade, energy supplies, and shipping operations worldwide. Escalating military activity has significantly increased risks for commercial vessels navigating these waters.
Measures Taken by India
To enhance the safety of Indian seafarers and merchant vessels, the government has introduced several precautionary measures:
Shipping companies have been advised not to deploy Indian sailors on vessels crossing the Strait of Hormuz.
Ships operating in nearby waters have been instructed to maintain heightened vigilance and continuously monitor security and navigational warnings.
Maritime authorities are closely tracking Indian-flagged vessels operating in the Gulf region.
The advisory will remain in force until the security situation improves.
Impact on Indian Seafarers
India is one of the world’s largest suppliers of maritime professionals, with over 300,000 Indian seafarers serving on ships across the globe. According to reports, more than 15,000 Indian sailors are currently located west of the Strait of Hormuz, making their safety a major concern for the government. Seafarers’ unions have also urged authorities to ensure protection and, where necessary, facilitate evacuation from high-risk areas.
Possible Impact on Global Trade
The advisory may affect shipping schedules and crew deployment across the Gulf. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital route for transporting crude oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and other commodities. Continued instability could lead to higher freight costs, shipping delays, and increased global energy prices if commercial traffic remains disrupted.
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