The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has placed the Indian government on highest alert to safeguard Indian seafarers amid a rapidly evolving maritime security situation in the Gulf region. The government is maintaining sustained surveillance of developments in and around the Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman, and adjoining maritime areas through the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS).
Coordination is underway with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Navy, Indian Missions abroad, maritime administrations of friendly countries, shipping companies, and seafarers' welfare organizations to ensure timely support and assistance. Recent security incidents involving merchant vessels have highlighted increasing risks to commercial shipping in these strategically important international lanes for global trade and energy security.
The DGS has advised all Indian seafarers on Indian and foreign-flagged vessels transiting conflict-affected waters to exercise the highest degree of caution and vigilance. Vessel operators, ship managers, and shipping companies have been directed to adhere strictly to maritime security protocols, maintain enhanced situational awareness, and continuously monitor government and international advisories.
A specific incident involved MT Settebello (IMO 9162916), a Palau-flagged Medium Range Tanker carrying 28 crew members including 24 Indian seafarers, which was subjected to a missile attack on June 10, 2026, approximately 20 nautical miles north-east of Sohar, Oman. Three Indian seafarers tragically lost their lives in the attack. The government has located and identified the mortal remains of the three deceased seafarers and safely rescued all other crew members.
Efforts are being fast-tracked to repatriate the rescued seafarers and ensure the dignified return of the mortal remains to their families. The Seafarers Welfare Fund Society (SWFS), functioning under the DGS, is releasing ₹10 lakhs to the families of each deceased seafarer as eligible welfare benefits and financial assistance.
The government has established dedicated 24/7 communication channels for emergency assistance, including email (dgcommcentre-dgs@nic.in), WhatsApp/Call (+91 8657549760), alternate numbers (+91 2222613606, +91 8657549752), toll-free domestic number (1800-889-7768), international toll-free number (+1-888-988-0256), WhatsApp (+91 8655856830), and email (enavik.24x7@gov.in).