India Eyes Naval Escort For 36 Ships Stranded In Hormuz Amid Iran War Tensions

New Delhi: The effect of increasing tension in West Asia is now visible on sea routes also. About 36 merchant ships belonging to India are currently stranded in the Strait of Hormuz and its surrounding sea area. The Government of India is constantly monitoring the situation regarding the safety of these ships and various options are being brainstormed to get them out safely. Sources say that if needed, naval warships can also be deployed to provide safe passage to Indian flagged ships.

Why are Indian ships stuck in the Strait of Hormuz?

Due to increased military tension between Iran, Israel and America, movement in the Persian Gulf and its associated sea routes has been affected. This is the reason why commercial ships of many countries are maintaining their position with caution. According to the information, about ten percent of the many oil tankers and gas carriers present in this region are Indian ships, which due to the current situation are waiting for the security situation to be cleared before moving ahead.

What did the government say about the safety of ships and crew?

According to government officials, all Indian ships present around the Strait of Hormuz are currently safe. The crew on board the ships have adequate supplies of essential items and fuel. However, given the tense situation, ships have to follow strict security protocols and are in constant touch with maritime authorities and concerned agencies.

Is there any consideration of deploying the Indian Navy?

According to sources, the government is also considering that if the situation worsens then Indian Navy warships can be sent to the area. In such a situation, naval ships can help in escorting merchant ships to safe sea routes. This will ensure the safety of Indian ships and the sailors working in them.

Have such operations been carried out before?

The Indian Navy has long experience in such maritime security operations. In June 2019, the Navy launched ‘Operation Sankalp’ during the rising tension in the Gulf region. Under this operation, security was provided to Indian merchant ships in the Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Oman. During that time, many Indian ships were able to cross the sea route safely every day under the surveillance of naval warships.

Are there a large number of Indian sailors also present in the area?

Sources associated with the shipping industry say that a large number of Indian sailors work on merchant ships around the world. For this reason, thousands of Indian sailors are estimated to be present in this area also. In such a situation, the Indian government is being cautious not only about the safety of Indian flagged ships but also about the safety of Indian citizens.

What is Iran's stance regarding the Strait of Hormuz?

Earlier it was said from Iran that the strait has not been completely closed. Iranian officials have also indicated that neighboring countries will not be targeted. According to Indian sources, Tehran has assured that there will be no threat to normal merchant ships in the area, which is expected to provide some relief to the Indian ships present there.