Indian Captain, 33 Crew Stranded Near Strait of Hormuz Amid Iran War

An Indian tanker captain and his crew are stranded near the Strait of Hormuz as tensions escalate in the Middle East amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

The vessel’s captain, Virendra Vishwakarma, along with 33 crew members, has been stuck near the strategic shipping corridor since March 2.

Crew Stuck Near Global Oil Chokepoint

The crew is aboard an LPG tanker operating close to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most critical maritime routes for global energy trade.

According to Captain Vishwakarma, the crew has been witnessing missile launches and drone activity in the skies almost daily due to the ongoing military tensions in the region.

He said the atmosphere around the vessel remains tense as sirens and military activity are frequently heard.

Captain Describes Situation on Board

Speaking from the ship, Vishwakarma said the crew remains concerned about their safety.

“We see missiles and drones flying overhead almost every day and hear sirens constantly. We are worried that anything could happen at any time,” he said.

Despite the situation, the crew has continued to remain on the vessel while awaiting instructions and possible assistance.

Families Appeal to Government

The captain’s family and relatives of other crew members in Mumbai have appealed to the Government of India for urgent intervention.

Family members are requesting authorities to ensure safe evacuation or naval protection for the tanker.

They have expressed growing anxiety as the conflict continues to intensify in the region.

Hope for Indian Navy Escort

The crew is hoping that the Indian Navy may provide an escort to guide the vessel safely back toward Indian waters.

The Strait of Hormuz has become increasingly sensitive due to military deployments and disruptions to shipping caused by the ongoing war.

Strategic Importance of the Strait

The Strait of Hormuz is among the world’s most important shipping routes, carrying a significant share of global oil and gas shipments.

Any disruption in the region not only affects international trade but also puts merchant vessels and crews at risk during periods of military conflict.

For now, the Indian crew continues to remain onboard the tanker, waiting for safe passage and assistance as tensions in the region persist.