18,000 Indian sailors remain in Gulf; 15 ships cross Hormuz amid tensions

Nearly 18,000 Indian seafarers continue to be deployed across the Gulf region amid ongoing tensions in West Asia, with the Indian government closely monitoring their safety and the movement of merchant vessels through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing, Shipping Ministry spokesperson Opesh Sharma said that despite the prevailing security concerns, 10 Indian-flagged vessels and five foreign-flagged ships have successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz.

The government's statement comes against the backdrop of attacks on multiple India-crewed vessels in the Gulf, which claimed the lives of three Indian sailors last week.

In a significant development, the ministry said the Indian vessel Disha has safely crossed the strait carrying 62,370 tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and is expected to reach India on June 18, helping ensure uninterrupted energy supplies to the country.

Officials said 325 Indian seafarers remain aboard vessels operating west of the Strait of Hormuz, while more than 200 others continue to be stranded in the Gulf of Oman. Authorities are maintaining constant communication and surveillance to ensure their safety.

The Shipping Ministry said all necessary assistance is being provided to Indian crew members and ship operators in the region. It also confirmed reports regarding the Hong Kong-flagged oil and chemical tanker Bochem Marengo, which was struck by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) while transiting the Strait of Hormuz on the night of June 12–13.

The tanker had 21 Indian crew members on board, all of whom were reported safe and unharmed despite the attack.

Officials said the government remains in close contact with shipping companies and maritime agencies as it monitors developments in the region. The ministry assured that all necessary support would continue to be extended to Indian seafarers and vessels affected by the ongoing tensions.

India continues to focus on safeguarding its maritime interests, protecting critical energy supply routes, and ensuring the welfare of thousands of Indian seafarers working in one of the world's most strategically sensitive shipping corridors.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has announced, and Iran has confirmed, that Washington and Tehran have finalised a deal to end their 107-day war, which triggered a global energy crisis. The peace agreement is scheduled to be signed on June 19 in Switzerland and is expected to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the US naval blockade of Iranian ports.

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