DGS withdraws restriction on the movement of Indian ships in the Strait of Hormuz

The Directorate General of Maritime Affairs, while withdrawing its earlier recommendation restricting the movement of Indian ships through the Gulf Region, including the Strait of Hormuz, and the deployment of Indian sailors in conflict zones, has asked maritime stakeholders to maintain a high level of caution and closely follow navigational advisories.

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In a revised order issued on Friday, June 28, 2026, the shipping regulator clarified that there are no restrictions on Indian ship owners/managers/Recruitment and Placement Service License (RPSL) organizations to continue operations of ships and deployment of Indian seafarers within and outside the Persian Gulf region by following the security protocols of Coastal States and security agencies. He advised stakeholders to exercise caution when operating in the Persian Gulf region.

The news stated that the International Maritime Organization (IMO), in close coordination with Coastal States and industry partners, has initiated measures to evacuate stranded seafarers through a coordinated mechanism involving IMO, UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and the Maritime Information Cooperation and Awareness (MICA) Centre.

A day after the recommendation was issued, the United States launched an attack on Iran in retaliation, attacking targets in Kuwait and Bahrain. The DGS said it is closely monitoring the evolving situation in coordination with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Navy, Indian Missions abroad and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers.

Days after the US attack on MT Settebello off the Coast of Oman, which resulted in the death of 3 Indian sailors, the DGS had on June 13, 2026, restricted the movement of Indian ships and the deployment of Indian sailors in and around the Gulf region, especially in and around the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman, citing multiple security incidents involving merchant ships carrying Indian sailors.

Security measures have been increased

Masters of vessels operating in or transiting through the Gulf region, including the Strait of Hormuz and adjacent waters, are advised to maintain high security awareness, closely monitor navigational warnings and other warnings or instructions received from security agencies, and implement all applicable ship security measures and Company Security Procedures.

DGS has also asked Masters, ship crew, RPSL companies, ship owners and maritime stakeholders to follow the advisory issued by the Indian Embassy in Tehran on 24 June 2026, which provides guidance to Indian citizens on travel and residence in Iran.