INDIAN SEAFARERS
India miffed over 'Ukrainian' drone strike on oil tanker
Aa Ukrainian drone assault targeted the Liberian-flagged Aframax Rio, carrying Indian citizens off the coast of Sochi. Fortunately, all 23 crew members were rescued after the fire broke out. India's Ministry of External Affairs has called for open dialogue to safeguard seafarers and ensure the freedom of navigation, stressing the critical need to restore international maritime safety and trade stability.
A global job spinner for Indians is now turning into a death trap
India has emerged as the world’s second-largest supplier of seafarers, but its growing presence aboard global merchant ships has also left more Indians exposed to wars, piracy and unsafe working conditions. Recent attacks in the Black Sea and off Oman have put the spotlight on how India is trying to protect its maritime workforce through tighter regulation, repatriation efforts, real-time tracking and international cooperation.
23 Indian seafarers reported safe after Ukrainian drone attack sets fire to oil tanker off Russian coast
A Liberian-flagged oil tanker carrying an Indian crew caught fire off Russia's Black Sea coast following a Ukrainian drone attack, with all 23 crew members safely rescued. India condemned ongoing maritime attacks, urging dialogue and diplomacy to protect global commerce and seafarers.
Explainer: Why have India-US trade talks stalled again and what's next?
Amid rising tariffs and geopolitical tensions, trade negotiations between India and the United States have reached an impasse. The US has voiced concerns over India's ongoing acquisition of Russian oil, which could trigger higher tariffs. India aims to safeguard its vital agricultural sectors during talks while advocating for enhanced export conditions. Future discussions, particularly with Secretary of State Marco Rubio's upcoming visit, may provide an opportunity for resolution.
MEA condemns Black Sea attack that killed two seafarers, expresses grave concern over strikes on commercial shipping
India has condemned the attack on the commercial vessel MV ROYAD MAMMADOV that resulted in two fatalities. All three Indian nationals aboard the ship have been reported safe, with one receiving medical attention. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve ongoing conflicts affecting commercial shipping. Indian authorities are in close contact with Romanian officials to support the injured crew members.
11 Indians injured as projectile hits vessel near Strait of Hormuz
A Panama-flagged commercial vessel named MT On Peace was hit by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz. The attack occurred while the vessel was transiting off the coast of Oman, injuring several crew members. Of the 19 crew members on board, 17 were Indian nationals, with 12 crew members sustaining injuries. Omani authorities assisted in the evacuation and treatment of the injured crew members in Khasab, Oman.
All three Indians safe after commercial vessel attacked in Black Sea; 2 foreign nationals killed
A commercial vessel named MV ROYAD MAMMADOV was attacked in the Black Sea, resulting in casualties. Three Indian nationals were among the crew members, with one sustaining injuries during the incident. The Indian Embassy in Romania confirmed the safety of the Indian nationals and is providing necessary support. Indian Ambassador Manoj Mohapatra confirmed their condition after visiting them at the hospital.
EAM Jaishankar flags strategic autonomy, diaspora welfare at Raisina diplomacy forum
S Jaishankar engaged with young diplomats at the Raisina Forum discussing India's expanding global influence and trade. He emphasized the importance of diaspora welfare and the responsibilities towards skilled professionals abroad. Additionally, he noted the evolving India-Africa partnership characterized by technological transfer and shared experiences. Jaishankar addressed challenges in foreign policy in the social media age and the dynamics of emerging middle power cooperation.
5 Indian nationals rescued after projectile hits tanker in Strait of Hormuz
Five Indian nationals were safely rescued after the MT Kazimah III was struck by a projectile. The Indian mission in Oman coordinated the rescue operation and expressed gratitude to Omani authorities for their assistance. The incident occurred amidst rising tensions in the Gulf region and follows several attacks on vessels with Indian seafarers. The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea.
India oil refiners change tactics and hire ships to cross Hormuz
Indian oil refiners are now hiring tankers to pick up crude oil within the Persian Gulf. This approach helps cut costs and secure supply chains amid changing geopolitical conditions. Recent Iraqi crude sales are on a free-on-board basis, giving Indian refiners better logistics control. The recovery of oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz significantly contributed to this strategic shift.
France, Britain in talks to end 'one in, one out' migrant deal
France and Britain are currently engaged in discussions to terminate their existing migration agreement regarding small-boat crossings. This deal, established last year, required the return of undocumented migrants by Britain to France. In exchange, France was obligated to accept a similar number of asylum seekers with British family connections. The French interior ministry has not explained why they wish to withdraw from this agreement at this time.
Indian sailor among 5 killed, another injured as Somali forces retake hijacked tanker
Five crew members, including an Indian sailor, were killed during a pirate attack on a hijacked tanker. Security forces managed to retake control of the vessel MT Honour 25 after the operation. The crew primarily consisted of Pakistani nationals, with several others from different countries. In a separate incident, another tanker was released by pirates after months of captivity.
4,500+ Indian seafarers in Persian Gulf under close watch amid rising maritime threats: MEA
India is currently overseeing the well-being of more than 4,500 Indian seafarers operating in the Persian Gulf. Of this number, 163 seafarers are on board 12 commercial vessels, which include both Indian and foreign ships. The Ministry of External Affairs is coordinating with local stakeholders to ensure their safety and welfare. Recent maritime threats have raised international concerns regarding shipping safety in the region.
DGMA extends validity of seafarer competency certificates amidst continuing Gulf crisis
This decision comes due to continued maritime security issues in West Asia and surrounding regions. Indian seafarers on vessels may face issues with certificate renewal or revalidation as a result of these challenges. The extension applies to various statutory certificates held by Indian seafarers working onboard.
Will exercise right to defend against terrorism: India at UN
India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar emphasized the nation's right to defend itself against terrorism. He asserted that friendship cannot coexist with terrorism and condemned state-sponsored actions. Jaishankar highlighted the unacceptable attacks on commercial vessels, which have resulted in the loss of Indian seafarers. He reiterated the need for a two-state solution to achieve lasting peace in West Asia.
'A terrorist country is asking me that question, come on': Jaishankar's blunt retort to Pakistani reporter at UN briefing in New York
S Jaishankar firmly responded to a heckling question from a Pakistani reporter at a press conference. The event was held during the High Level Week at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. India continues to emphasize Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism and urges credible actions against it. Recent attacks, including the Pahalgam terror attack, were acknowledged internationally for their severity.
At UNGA, India launches maritime safety group to protect ships and seafarers
India and Liberia have joined forces to establish a 'Group of Friends' dedicated to improving the safety of shipping and seafarers. This timely initiative comes in response to a worrying rise in maritime attacks, particularly in high-risk areas such as the Strait of Hormuz and Bab-el-Mandeb. During the 81st UN General Assembly, External Affairs Minister S.
INS Sudarshini reaches Egypt's Alexandria port during Lokayan 26 transoceanic expedition
INS Sudarshini reached Alexandria, Egypt during its ongoing Lokayan 26 transoceanic expedition while covering 22,000 nautical miles. The ship's purpose includes training in ocean navigation and traditional seamanship. Upon arrival, the ship was welcomed by Rear Admiral Mohamed Abdel Aziz and Indian Embassy representatives. The port visit will feature interactions with the Egyptian Navy to strengthen maritime relations.
Jaishankar flags India’s concerns over US sanctions law in talks with Rubio
S Jaishankar reiterated India's concerns regarding the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act in discussions with Marco Rubio. This legislation poses a potential threat of 100% tariffs on Russian oil purchases, which India heavily relies on. The sanctions coincide with disruptions in global energy supplies due to conflicts in the region. Approximately 45% of India's crude imports were from Russia in August.
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