Eight Indian Sailors Released from Iran: What’s Next for the Remaining Crew?
Release of Indian Sailors from Iranian Detention
New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Thursday that eight out of the sixteen Indian sailors detained in Iran have been freed and are set to return to India after completing necessary procedures.
During a press conference in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the Indian government is actively coordinating with Iranian officials to secure the release of the remaining sailors.
Jaiswal stated, "We have had consular access. Our officials in Bandar Abbas have met with them. According to the information provided by Iranian authorities, eight sailors have been released and will return home once the required formalities for their travel are finalized. We are in contact with Iranian authorities regarding the remaining sailors and will provide them with the necessary support."
On January 17, the Indian Embassy in Tehran reported that the vessel MT Valiant Roar, carrying 16 Indian crew members, was detained by Iranian authorities in mid-December. The Indian consulate in Bandar Abbas had made several requests for consular access to the crew.
In a statement on X, the Indian Embassy in Tehran noted, "Around mid-December 2025, we were informed about the detention of the vessel MT Valiant Roar by Iranian authorities, which has 16 Indian crew members on board. The Consulate of India in Bandar Abbas promptly requested consular access to the crew on December 14."
The embassy reiterated its request for consular access multiple times through diplomatic channels and in-person meetings, including discussions at the ambassadorial level. They also urged Iranian authorities to allow the crew to communicate with their families in India.
Additionally, the Consulate reached out to the UAE-based company that owns the ship on December 15 and has been in contact with their Iranian agents to ensure the crew receives food, water, and legal representation in Iranian courts.
The embassy's statement further revealed, "Upon learning about the dwindling food and water supplies on the ship, we intervened with the Iranian navy to arrange emergency provisions in early January. The Indian Consulate in Dubai has also been advocating for legal representation and regular supplies for the crew."
The situation is anticipated to undergo judicial proceedings in Iran. However, the embassy and consulate continue to press for prompt consular access and the swift resolution of judicial matters.