Around 23,000 Indian Sailors In Gulf, 24 Ships West Of Hormuz: Centre

The Ministry of Ports and Shipping has reported that approximately 23,000 Indian sailors are currently employed on merchant ships in the Gulf region. This announcement comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly following recent military actions involving the United States and Iran. The situation has raised alarms about the safety and security of these sailors as potential conflict looms, especially with 24 vessels reported to be stationed west of the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic waterway is crucial for global oil transport and has been a flashpoint for geopolitical tensions. The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of its nationals and is prepared to take necessary actions to assist Indian sailors if the need arises. The presence of a significant number of Indian sailors in the Gulf underscores India's strong maritime workforce and its vital role in international shipping, but also highlights the risks posed by regional instability.