Kamal Ghorui
At least three Indian seafarers serving on foreign‑flagged vessels were killed and a fourth injured in the Middle East region, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) said on Tuesday. He warned maritime operators to review voyage‑specific risks amid escalating military actions involving the US, Israel and Iran.In a statement, the DGS said “there have been four reported incidents involving Indian seafarers in the region, resulting in three casualties and one injured seafarer, all of whom were serving on board foreign‑flagged vessels”, news agency PTI reported.The casualties come against the backdrop of intensifying hostilities in the region, with American and Israeli airstrikes continuing to hit targets in Iran since the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday. Tehran and its allied forces have responded with strikes on Israel, neighbouring Gulf states and infrastructure critical to global oil and gas production.US President Donald Trump on Monday stated that the US “has the capability to go far longer” than its previously outlined four‑to‑five‑week timeline for military operations against Iran.The DGS said it is “closely monitoring the evolving maritime security situation in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman and adjoining sea areas.” It highlighted threats posed by missile and drone activity, electronic interference and other maritime security concerns.According to PTI, shipping stakeholders have been advised to maintain heightened vigilance and undertake thorough voyage‑specific risk assessments. Vessels operating in the region are being urged to adopt an enhanced security posture, ensure robust bridge watches, maintain continuous communications readiness and report any suspicious activity immediately. Operators are also advised to review transit through high‑risk areas based on prevailing conditions.The DGS added that the remaining crew members on board the affected vessels are “safe and secure”, and that authorities are in close coordination to ensure their well‑being and support. Enhanced monitoring, real‑time tracking of Indian‑flagged vessels, mandatory reporting protocols and 24×7 oversight have been activated, in coordination with the Indian Navy, ministry of external affairs, MRCC and Indian missions.A dedicated quick response team has also been formed to provide timely assistance to seafarers and their families, the Directorate said.
