FSUI Seeks Urgent Intervention as 19 Indian Seafarers Face Threat Near Strait of Hormuz

The Federation of Seafarers’ Unions of India (FSUI) has sought urgent intervention by the Government of India and international maritime authorities to protect 22 seafarers, including 19 Indians, aboard MV New Born following a reported threat from the Iranian Navy near the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz.

According to FSUI, the vessel received a direct radio warning from the Iranian Navy ordering it to leave the area immediately and proceed to Dubai anchorage, accompanied by a threat that the vessel could be targeted if it failed to comply.

The warning has raised serious concerns about the safety of the crew, particularly the Indian nationals onboard, amid heightened security risks in the region.

Crew’s Repeated Repatriation Requests Allegedly Ignored

FSUI said the vessel had been operating under severe pressure at Mina Saqr and was reported to be in Kuwait before again sailing near the Strait of Hormuz.

The union alleged that the seafarers had repeatedly requested sign-off and repatriation but had received no response from the shipowner and manager.

The crew reportedly remains onboard despite the security concerns, with FSUI warning that the seafarers have effectively been abandoned in a high-risk maritime zone.

The union has called for immediate action to ensure that crew members who have requested repatriation can safely leave the vessel and return home.

FSUI Appeals to Indian Government and International Authorities

FSUI has urged the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and the Directorate General of Shipping to intervene without delay.

The appeal has also been directed to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the vessel’s flag State, the authorities in the UAE and Kuwait, and the shipowner and manager.

FSUI has called for coordinated action to facilitate the safe sign-off and repatriation of the seafarers who have requested it, stressing that their lives must not be put at risk because of the failure to address their concerns.

The union has also sought the involvement of Indian diplomatic missions and international maritime organisations to ensure that the crew receives the necessary assistance.

Shipowner and Manager Asked to Act

The alleged lack of response to the crew’s repeated requests has become a major concern in the case.

FSUI has stressed that the seafarers’ safety must take precedence over commercial and operational considerations. It has called on the shipowner and manager to respond immediately to the crew’s demands and make arrangements for their safe disembarkation and repatriation.

The situation also raises concerns about the protection of seafarers who find themselves operating in areas affected by geopolitical tensions and maritime security threats.

Safety of Seafarers Must Come First

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical international shipping route, making security threats in the surrounding waters a matter of concern for commercial shipping and the welfare of seafarers.

FSUI has appealed for immediate intervention to prevent the situation from escalating and to protect all 22 crew members aboard MV New Born.

The union’s demand is for the authorities and the vessel’s management to act urgently, facilitate the safe return of those seeking repatriation, and ensure that the crew is not left exposed to further danger.

With 19 Indian nationals among the 22 seafarers onboard, FSUI has called for immediate, coordinated action to safeguard their lives.