The death of 3 Indian seafarers aboard Settebello, in the Gulf of Oman due to US military strike highlighted maritime safety risks borne by Seafarers.

Issues Related to Maritime Safety of Seafarers

• Increasing Conflict-Zone Risks: Exposure to missile attacks, drone strikes, and military confrontations in regions such as the Persian Gulf and Red Sea.
• Sanctions-Related Vulnerability: Sanctioned vessels may lose insurance, compensation, port access, and financial services, increasing operational risks.
• Inadequate International Enforcement: Weak implementation of maritime laws despite frameworks such as International Maritime Organization and UNCLOS.
• Jurisdictional Challenges: Multiple stakeholders (flag states, coastal states, shipowners, and crew nationalities) complicate responsibility and rescue efforts.
• Defenceless Merchant Ships: Commercial vessels have minimal self-defence capabilities against attacks.

Way Forward 

• Enhanced Maritime Security: Increase naval patrols, surveillance, and rapid-response capabilities.
• Informed Consent: Mandate risk disclosure before deployment in war-risk zones.
• Welfare Support: Establish helplines and support systems for seafarers' families and also ensure adequate war-risk cover and allowances.
• International Cooperation: Coordinate with flag states, shipowners, and maritime organizations.