'Don't deploy Indian sailors…': India's big warning to shipowners over Hormuz amid renewed US-Iran tensions

India has issued a stark warning to its shipping industry, directing shipowners, managers, and recruitment agencies to cease deploying Indian seafarers on vessels that pass through the Strait of Hormuz. This precautionary measure comes amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, which have heightened risks in the crucial waterway.

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Companies are directed to avoid deploying Indian seafarers on vessels undertaking voyages involving passage through the Strait of Hormuz until further orders.

The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) issued the order on Wednesday, citing "significantly" increased risks for seafarers operating in the conflict-affected region. The directive will remain in effect "until further orders," reflecting the volatile security situation in the Persian Gulf.

This move follows the tragic deaths of two Indian seafarers in recent attacks. Rohan Kumar, 31, from Bihar, was killed in missile attacks on two Emirati oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. Separately, Herambh Karmarkar, 30, from Pune, went missing after an attack on the cargo vessel MV GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman and was later confirmed dead.

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In view of the heightened security situation in the Persian Gulf region ... the Directorate considers it necessary to adopt enhanced precautionary measures to safeguard the interests of Indian seafarers serving on board ships operating in the region.

India is a significant global provider of maritime labor, with more than 300,000 of its citizens employed on ships worldwide, making them the third-largest supplier of seafarers globally. The DGMA stated its commitment to safeguarding the safety, security, and welfare of these seafarers while continuing to monitor the evolving situation closely.

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We express our deepest condolences at the tragic demise of an Indian national due to an attack on the commercial vessel MV GFS Galaxy on 12 July 2026.