The International
Maritime Organization estimates nearly 20,000 seafarers are
onboard the stranded ships. Given that India is a major source of seafarers to
global shipping, Indian seafarers stranded would amount to several thousands.
The Indian Navy has conducted extensive operations
defending merchant ships including those with Indian seafarers against Houthi
attacks as well as Somalian pirates. Operation Sankalp, which was launched to
ensure maritime security in the Gulf region, included action against Houthi
rebels.
Meanwhile, Iran’s
promise to not attack neighbours in the Persian Gulf may give confidence for
ships stuck there to move across the Strait of Hormuz and sail away, another
highly placed source and the decision
maker in the government said.