Indian Ships Get Green Light for Hormuz, But Caution Remains High
Indian Ships Get Green Light for Hormuz, But Caution Remains High
India's Directorate General of Shipping has lifted restrictions on Indian ships and seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz. While operations resume, stakeholders are urged to maintain heightened caution amidst evolving Gulf t
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has announced the withdrawal of its advisory that previously restricted the movement of Indian ships in the Gulf Region, including the vital Strait of Hormuz, and the deployment of Indian seafarers in designated conflict zones. This significant decision, communicated in a revised order issued on Friday, June 26, 2026, signals a return to regular operations for Indian maritime stakeholders, albeit with a strong emphasis on heightened caution.
The earlier restrictions were put in place on June 13, 2026, following a period of escalating tensions in the region. This included a U.S. strike on the MT Settebello off the coast of Oman, which tragically resulted in the deaths of three Indian seafarers. The advisory also came in the wake of U.S. strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliatory attacks by Iran on targets in Kuwait and Bahrain, highlighting the extreme volatility of the area.
Under the new directive, there are no longer restrictions for Indian ship owners, managers, or Recruitment and Placement Service Licence (RPSL) agencies to operate vessels and deploy Indian seafarers in and out of the Persian Gulf. However, the DGS has unequivocally stated that all operations must strictly adhere to the security protocols established by Coastal States and relevant security agencies. Maritime stakeholders are urged to continuously monitor navigational warnings and maintain an elevated level of vigilance.
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO), in coordination with Coastal States and industry partners, had previously initiated efforts for the evacuation of stranded seafarers through a coordinated mechanism involving the IMO, United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), and the Maritime Information Cooperation and Awareness (MICA) Center. This collaborative effort underscored the severe risks faced by seafarers caught in the crossfire. Despite a brief surge in traffic through the Strait of Hormuz after some U.S. sanctions relief and humanitarian evacuations, a fresh attack in the Gulf of Oman caused traffic to plummet once more. Iran's warnings about safe passage routes have further amplified concerns, leading many major global carriers to remain hesitant about returning to the volatile waterway.
The DGS has assured that it is closely monitoring the evolving situation in coordination with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Navy, Indian Missions abroad, and other concerned stakeholders to safeguard the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers. This ongoing vigilance is critical as the region remains susceptible to sudden geopolitical shifts and security incidents.
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