Rising Tensions in the Gulf: Attacks on Indian-Flagged Tankers

The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has escalated maritime tensions in the Persian Gulf, particularly affecting Indian seafarers. On March 1, 2026, the oil tanker Skylight, carrying 15 Indian and 5 Iranian crew members, was attacked approximately 5 nautical miles north of Khasab, Oman. This incident is part of a series of assaults on vessels in the region, with three ships reportedly targeted since hostilities intensified. Following the attack, ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has significantly decreased, with only 60 to 70 vessels transiting on the day prior to the incident.

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The attack on Skylight has highlighted the risks faced by Indian seafarers, who represent a significant portion of the global maritime workforce. The International Federation of Transport Workers (ITF) reported that in 2025, India had the highest number of abandoned seafarers, totaling 1,125, due to financial constraints stemming from U.S. sanctions on vessels like Skylight. The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) of India has responded by issuing advisories that restrict Indian seafarers from joining ships in Iran and recommend extreme caution for those transiting through the Strait of Hormuz.

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The situation worsened on March 2, 2026, when the oil tanker MKD Vyom was struck by a bomb-carrying drone boat, resulting in the death of an Indian mariner. The attack occurred off the coast of Muscat, Oman, amid ongoing threats from Iran against vessels in the region. In response to these incidents, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has engaged in discussions with Gulf leaders, including Bahrain's King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, to ensure the safety of Indian nationals and condemn the attacks on regional sovereignty.

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Anil Devli, CEO of the Indian National Shipowners’ Association, emphasized the importance of safeguarding Indian-flagged vessels, noting that 27 Indian ships are currently operating in the Persian Gulf. He urged the Indian government to leverage diplomatic channels with Iran and Israel to facilitate the safe passage of these vessels, which are crucial for India's energy imports.

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Critics have raised concerns about the safety of Indian seafarers in light of the escalating conflict. The ITF has called for increased efforts to protect seafarers, stating that they should never be placed in harm's way. The ongoing violence and the potential for further attacks pose significant risks not only to the crew members but also to the broader maritime industry.

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While the Indian Embassy in Oman has confirmed the casualties and is coordinating with local authorities for the repatriation of affected crew members, there remains uncertainty regarding the total number of injured and missing individuals from the Skylight incident. The situation continues to evolve, with ongoing search operations for crew members and heightened security concerns in the region.

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• “Indian seafarers represent a significant proportion of the world’s seafarers working in the merchant fleet, and all efforts must always be undertaken to ensure that they are never be placed in harm’s way – the ITF and its affiliate unions are working around the clock to verify the safety and security of all the seafarers we collectively represent.” — ITF Spokesperson

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• “India condemns the recent attacks on Saudi Arabia in violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.” — Prime Minister Narendra Modi

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• “We remain committed to extending all possible assistance in this matter,” it said.” — Indian Embassy in Oman

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