India has issued an urgent advisory in form a strict direction to all ships and shipping companies to avoid going to the Gulf of Hormuz in wake of continued escalation of hostilities between US and Iran.
On Friday the 17th of July 2026, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) issued instructions to shipowners, ship managers and Recruitment and Placement Service Licence companies to avoid deploying Indian seafarers on vessels undertaking voyages through the Strait of Hormuz until further orders.
This advisory issued by the country’s Maritime Administration is a precautionary measures for the safety and security of Indian seafarers in view of the heightened security situation in the gulf region.
Sources in the DGMA say that the recent incidents involving attacks on merchant vessels over the past few days have increased the risks faced by seafarers and commercial ships operating in the conflict-affected area significantly.
The safety, security and welfare of Indian seafarers deployed in the Gulf area and the security of Indian ships remain central for the Directorate General of Maritime Administration, sources added.
Also arrangements have been made for emergency assistance to the seafarers, should the need arise.
The DGMA has asked seafarers and vessels to immediately contact the DG Communication Centre or the Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region.
