Middle East conflict: 28 Indian ships, carrying 778 seafarers, stuck in Persian Gulf amid Iran's Hormuz Strait blockade

The ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have led to a blockade affecting maritime activities in the Strait of Hormuz, impacting 28 Indian ships with a total of 778 seafarers aboard. Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, provided details indicating that 24 of these vessels, carrying 677 crew members, are stranded in the western section of the strait, while four ships with 101 individuals are located on the eastern side. The situation has raised concerns for the safety and well-being of the seafarers amid the escalating conflict. The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation and is expected to coordinate efforts to ensure the safe passage and return of its nationals. This incident underscores the vulnerability of maritime trade routes in the region, which are critical for global shipping, especially for oil transport. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most crucial waterways, and any disruption can have significant implications for international trade and energy security.