West Asia Conflict: As the security risks across major West Asian shipping channels continues to worsen, India’s maritime regulator has issued an advisory, urging commercial vessels to prioritise safety. The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has asked companies and vessel operators to heighten safety measures.
3 Indian seafarers killed in West Asia
The advisory comes on the backdrop of recent casualties involving Indian crew. The Directorate General of Shipping said on Tuesday that three Indian seafarers on board foreign-flagged vessels were killed and one was injured in the Middle East region.
DGS further said that the remaining crew members on board are safe and secure, and the Directorate, as well as other authorities, are maintaining close coordination with all stakeholders to ensure their continued safety, well-being and timely support.
All necessary support, assistance and facilitation are being extended to the affected seafarers and their families, it added.
DGS closely monitoring security situation in Strait of Hormuz
In its advisory, the Directorate General of Shipping said it is “closely monitoring evolving security situation in Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman and adjoining sea areas in light of recent regional and geopolitical developments, where reported threats have included missile and drone activity, electronic interference and other maritime security concerns.”
Enhanced monitoring and security oversight
The Directorate General of Shipping said in the advisory that it has activated enhanced monitoring and security oversight.
“Mandatory reporting protocols have been prescribed for vessels, owners and managers and close coordination is being maintained with the Indian Navy, Ministry of External Affairs, IFC-IOR, MRCC and Indian Missions,” the advisory said.
The maritime regulator has also asked shipping companies and RPSLs to exercise due caution in crew deployment and to maintain regular communication with seafarers and their families.
Stakeholders should undertake voyage-specific risk assessments
Stakeholders have been advised to maintain heightened vigilance and undertake voyage-specific risk assessments, and vessels operating in the region have been advised to maintain an enhanced security posture and bridge watch, ensure continuous communication readiness, and report any suspicious activity immediately, with transit through high-risk areas to be reviewed by operators based on prevailing conditions, the shipping authority said.
Crisis rattle Middle East
Middle East is going through one of its most dangerous periods in recent memory right now. Iran’s Supreme Leader was killed recently, and since then things have gotten very bad very fast. The United States and Israel have been carrying out airstrikes on Iran. Iran and the groups it supports have been hitting back, targeting Israel, nearby Gulf countries, and oil and gas facilities that much of the world depends on.
