On July 23, 2026, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) of India issued Circular 42, focusing on heightened maritime security concerns for Indian-flagged and foreign vessels with Indian seafarers operating in or near Yemen, the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, and the Southern Red Sea.
The Context of Increased Threats
The maritime security situation in the region has significantly deteriorated, following the Houthi group’s announcement of a blockade against Saudi Arabia and corresponding threats to maritime traffic. This escalation of tensions has raised security risks for merchant vessels operating in and around these crucial waters.
The Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, a vital maritime route for global energy and commercial trade, remains susceptible to various security threats. Evidence from 2023 to 2025 indicates the Houthis’ capabilities to strike commercial vessels using missiles, drones, and unmanned surface vehicles, thereby causing disruptions in maritime traffic in the Southern Red Sea and surrounding regions.
Advisories and Recommended Actions
The DGMA has advised all Indian-flagged vessels and those carrying Indian seafarers to exercise maximum caution while navigating in the affected areas. Immediate reporting of security incidents or suspicious activities to DGCOMM and relevant authorities is emphasized.
Shipowners and operators are encouraged to conduct detailed voyage-specific security risk assessments and stay updated on any new advisories issued by the DGMA and other governmental bodies. Furthermore, prior guidance, including DGS Circular No. 08 of 2024, remains applicable, facilitating preparedness and response to potential security threats.
The Operational Read
The advisory underscores an urgent need for shipping operators to reassess their operational protocols in light of rising geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea and Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. Given the volatility of the region, vessel operators must prioritize security measures and maintain prompt communication with maritime authorities. The consistent pattern of Houthi escalations demands vigilance among crew members, necessitating a reassessment of route planning and security preparedness. Being proactive in threat detection and incident reporting will be crucial for ensuring the safety of seafarers and protecting assets transiting these critical maritime corridors. Operators should also monitor alliances and regional developments closely to adapt their strategies accordingly.
