India Lifts Shipping Restrictions in Strait of Hormuz Amid Gulf Tensions
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has withdrawn its earlier advisory restricting the movement of Indian ships in the Gulf region, including the Strait of Hormuz, and the deployment of Indian seafarers in conflict zones. The revised order, issued on June 28, 2026, clarifies that there is no restriction for Indian ship owners, managers, or recruitment agencies to continue operations and deploy seafarers in and out of the Persian Gulf, provided they follow the security protocols of coastal states and relevant agencies. The DGS, however, has advised all stakeholders to maintain a heightened level of caution and closely monitor navigational warnings.
The initial advisory, released on June 13, 2026, restricted ship movements and seafarer deployment following a US strike on the MT Settebello off the coast of Oman, which resulted in the deaths of three Indian seafarers. The advisory also cited multiple security incidents involving merchant vessels carrying Indian crew. The situation escalated further when the US launched strikes on Iran, prompting retaliatory attacks on targets in Kuwait and Bahrain.
In its revised order, the DGS noted that the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), in coordination with coastal states and industry partners, has initiated measures for the evacuation of stranded seafarers. This coordinated mechanism involves the IMO, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), and the Maritime Information Cooperation and Awareness (MICA) Center. The DGS is closely monitoring the evolving situation in coordination with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Navy, Indian missions abroad, and other stakeholders to ensure the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers.
Masters of vessels operating in or transiting through the Gulf region, including the Strait of Hormuz and adjoining waters, have been advised to maintain heightened security awareness, monitor navigational warnings and instructions from security agencies, and implement all applicable ship security measures and company security procedures. The DGS has also instructed stakeholders to follow the advisory issued by the Embassy of India in Tehran on June 24, 2026, which provides guidance for Indian nationals regarding travel and residence in Iran.
The withdrawal of restrictions comes as a relief to the Indian shipping industry, which had faced disruptions due to the earlier advisory. However, the DGS continues to urge caution, reflecting the volatile security environment in the region. The situation remains fluid, and further updates are expected as the international community works to de-escalate tensions.
