India Prioritises Moving 13 Ships Out Of Strait Of Hormuz As Gulf Security Risks Persist
Our take

Recent developments in the Gulf region have led India to prioritize the relocation of 13 ships from the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a decision influenced by increasing security risks. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has further advised Indian nationals to avoid travel to Iran and has urged those already in the country to seek embassy assistance for safe passage home. This move highlights the ongoing complexities and tensions in a region where geopolitical dynamics are in constant flux, underscoring the significance of maritime security in global trade and diplomacy. As noted in related articles, such as Iran’s Navy Targets U.S. Base In Kuwait After Washington Renews Military Action Overnight and US, Iran Reach Tentative Deal To Extend Ceasefire For 60 Days And Reopen Strait Of Hormuz, the region remains a focal point of international tension, with implications that extend far beyond its geographical boundaries.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint through which a significant portion of the world's oil trade passes. As geopolitical tensions escalate, particularly between Iran and the U.S., the safety of maritime routes becomes paramount. The Indian government's decision to prioritize the removal of its vessels from these waters signals a prudent approach to safeguarding national interests and ensuring the safety of its maritime assets. In the context of rising threats, such as military actions and retaliatory strikes, this development reflects a broader trend where nations are increasingly reassessing their maritime strategies in response to regional instability.
Moreover, the MEA's guidance to Indian nationals to leave Iran underscores a growing recognition of the risks associated with being in volatile regions. This proactive stance not only prioritizes the safety of citizens but also reflects a commitment to ensuring that Indian maritime operations are conducted within a framework of safety and security. The urgency of these measures is amplified by the fact that maritime security is not merely a national concern but a global one, impacting international relations and economic stability. The interconnectedness of global supply chains means that disruptions in one region can have ripple effects worldwide, affecting everything from oil prices to international trade agreements.
As these developments unfold, it is crucial for stakeholders in maritime industries, policymakers, and researchers to consider the implications of shifting geopolitical landscapes on maritime operations. The ongoing tensions in the Gulf serve as a reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist in global shipping routes and the need for robust frameworks for maritime security. Future dialogues around regional stability, international collaborations, and the development of contingency plans will be essential in navigating these complexities.
In closing, the situation warrants close observation, particularly as nations grapple with the balance between national security and global trade imperatives. Will the recent tensions prompt a reevaluation of maritime policies and partnerships in the Gulf? As we look ahead, the interplay of diplomacy, military strategy, and economic interests will undoubtedly shape the future of maritime security in this vital region. The world must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these challenges, ensuring that the seas remain open and secure for all.


India has launched a priority operation to move 13 Indian-flagged commercial vessels out of the Strait of Hormuz as tensions continue across the Gulf region.
The move is part of a coordinated effort involving the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Indian missions and maritime stakeholders to protect Indian seafarers and commercial shipping interests.
The MEA has also advised Indian nationals to avoid travelling to Iran and urged those already there to leave with embassy assistance.
Speaking on Friday, Opesh Kumar Sharma, Director at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, said authorities have prepared a coordinated plan to help Indian vessels currently operating in the strategically important waterway.
According to Sharma, there are about 13 Indian-flagged vessels in the area, including one LPG tanker, five crude oil tankers, one chemical or product tanker, three container ships, two bulk carriers and one dredger.
“Our priority is to get our ships out that are currently inside,” he said.
Sharma also confirmed that Nissos Keros, a Marshall Islands-flagged crude oil tanker carrying about 270,000 metric tonnes of crude oil, safely transited the Strait of Hormuz during the night of May 25-26.
The vessel is expected to arrive at Visakhapatnam on June 3 and is crewed entirely by foreign nationals.
He said all Indian seafarers in the region remain safe and that no incident involving Indian crew members on either Indian-flagged or foreign-flagged merchant vessels has been reported.
The Directorate General of Shipping’s emergency control room has handled more than 10,800 calls and over 24,098 emails since it was activated.
During the past 96 hours alone, it received around 500 calls and 1,332 emails from seafarers, their families and maritime stakeholders.
According to Sharma, the government has facilitated the safe repatriation of more than 3,422 Indian seafarers from various locations across the Gulf region, including 47 during the last 96 hours.
He added that port operations across India remain normal and no congestion has been reported.
References: ANI News, TOI
Read on the original site
Open the publisher's page for the full experience
Related Articles
- Indian Navy Launches Emergency Mission To Rescue 18 Stranded Ships In Persian GulfThe Indian Navy and the multi-ministry task force are evacuating 18 ships stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, carrying cargo bound for India.
- 10th Indian Ship Carrying Crude Oil Transits Hormuz Strait Amid Firing By Iranian WarshipsThe 10th Indian-flagged ship safely crossed the Hormuz amidst firing by Iranian gunboats, which forced two Indian tankers to turn back.
- India Monitors 20 Indian-Flagged Ships With 540 Seafarers In Persian Gulf Amid Rising TensionsThe government confirmed that all crew members are safe and no incident involving Indian ships has been reported in the past 24 hours.
- India Plans To Send New Ships Through Hormuz Strait To Load Oil & Gas From Middle EastIndia plans to send ships through Strait of Hormuz to load oil & gas from Middle East suppliers as U.S.-Iran war threatens global energy security.