Indian Sailors Waiting for a Way Home

A group of Indian seafarers has been stranded off the coast of Iran for two weeks, trapped near Bandar Abbas—a bustling port on the Persian Gulf. The area has become perilous as drones and missiles have set nearby ships ablaze.

The Human Toll

• Ambuj, 26, has not seen his family for six months.
• He reports being surrounded by over 50 vessels.
• The crew’s employer has put them on hold, awaiting a safe passage.

Why They’re Stuck

• The captain received a warning from Iran’s military that crossing the Strait of Hormuz could be risky.
• Clearance requests were denied, leaving the crew stranded with a looming threat of weeks or even months at sea.

Global Context

• India employs roughly 300,000 sailors worldwide, making it the third‑largest group of workers in global shipping.
• The situation has sparked significant concern back home, prompting Delhi to engage Iranian officials for assistance.

Recent Events

• Crew members witnessed drones and fighter jets overhead.
• Internet service was cut off in early March, briefly resuming on March 6 via satellite.
• One crewman admits he can barely sleep, haunted by the constant anxiety of spotting aircraft.

Diplomatic Developments

• Iran recently allowed two Indian‑flagged gas carriers to pass through the strait.
• The Iranian ambassador to India confirmed that Indian ships can move safely.