MUMBAI: Amid continuing instability in the Middle East and heightened security concerns in and around the Strait of Hormuz, the National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI) has reiterated that the safety, security and wellbeing of Indian seafarers remain its highest priority.
In a statement, NUSI said the ongoing situation in the region continues to pose serious challenges for the global maritime community, with thousands of seafarers affected by the security crisis. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has been closely monitoring developments and has undertaken efforts to facilitate the safe evacuation of seafarers and vessels stranded in the Gulf region.
According to the IMO, its temporary evacuation framework enabled 136 vessels carrying approximately 2,900 seafarers to safely leave the region between 23 and 26 June 2026. The operation was conducted through alternative routes after the normal Traffic Separation Scheme could not be used because of security risks, including the reported presence of sea mines. The evacuation process was subsequently paused when the safety of vessels and crews could no longer be assured.
NUSI has welcomed the IMO’s leadership and continued efforts to protect seafarers during the crisis. The union stressed that Indian seafarers and their families should know that they are not alone, with the Government of India, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Indian maritime administration, IMO, International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and NUSI continuing to remain actively engaged on seafarer safety and welfare.
The union said it has consistently raised the concerns of Indian seafarers at national and international forums, particularly on issues relating to safe navigation, evacuation and repatriation, protection of crews operating in conflict zones, abandonment, access to essential supplies and assistance for seafarers and their families.
The IMO has also continued to seek assurances that vessels can safely use alternative routes out of the Strait of Hormuz. In July, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said approximately 6,000 seafarers remained stranded in the region, while efforts continued to secure conditions that would allow the evacuation framework to resume safely.
NUSI has issued a strong appeal to all Indian seafarers operating in or around the Strait of Hormuz and other high-risk areas to remain vigilant, strictly follow official safety advisories and immediately report any circumstances that could threaten their safety or wellbeing.
The union emphasised that while seafarers are essential to keeping global trade and supply chains moving, no cargo, commercial interest or voyage can take precedence over the life and safety of a seafarer.
Reaffirming its commitment to the Indian maritime workforce, NUSI said it will continue working closely with the Government of India, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, IMO, ITF and the wider maritime community towards ensuring the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers.
The union concluded its message with a clear commitment that captures the priority at the heart of its efforts:
“SAFETY FIRST. SEAFARERS FIRST. ALWAYS.”
Jai Hind. Jai Navik. Jai NUSI.
