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India Is Trying to Shield Its Seafarers From Missile Threats. (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: India has intensified diplomatic efforts to safeguard its citizens working on merchant vessels as escalating tensions in the Gulf region place Indian seafarers in increasing danger. With multiple reported attacks on ships carrying Indian crew members, New Delhi has expressed serious concern over the security of international shipping routes.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks for the second time within a week following reports that another merchant vessel with around 20 Indian crew members was attacked near the coast of Oman.
Officials said this marks the third such incident in just four days, prompting urgent diplomatic engagement between India and the United States. The government conveyed its concerns over rising risks to civilian maritime traffic in conflict-affected waters.
The Gulf and Arabian Sea shipping corridors have become increasingly volatile amid ongoing regional conflict linked to tensions involving Iran. Commercial vessels, including oil tankers and cargo ships, are facing heightened security threats, forcing shipping operators to review routes and safety protocols.
India, which supplies nearly 10% of the global seafaring workforce, has a significant number of citizens employed on international merchant vessels, making maritime safety a key national priority.
Recent incidents, including reported damage to the MT Jalveer, have heightened fears about civilian ships becoming unintended targets during military escalations at sea. Several Indian sailors are believed to have been affected, raising concerns within the government and maritime industry.
New Delhi is now advocating for a structured maritime de-confliction system to improve coordination between military forces and commercial shipping operators. The aim is to reduce risks for civilian vessels operating in high-conflict zones.
Officials have stressed that while India maintains strong diplomatic ties with global partners, the safety of Indian citizens remains a top priority.
As tensions persist in the Gulf, India’s maritime diplomacy is expected to remain active as it seeks stronger protections for thousands of its seafarers working in one of the world’s most sensitive shipping corridors.
