The Strait of Hormuz remains technically open for shipping, but commercial traffic is far from normal, said Anil Devli, chief executive of the Indian National Shipowners' Association. With 14 Indian vessels trapped in the region and recent incidents of Indian ships being fired upon by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Devli noted that there is a sense of hesitation among seafarers.

Devli stated that some neutral-flag vessels are transiting the strait with Iran's tacit permission or US protection, but normal traffic has come to a halt.

The incidents of Indian ships being fired upon, including the VLCC Sanmar Herald and bulk carrier Jag Arnav on April 18, have heightened concerns and prompted India to raise the issue with the Iranian ambassador regarding the safety of its mariners.

The situation has stabilized somewhat, with India facilitating the movement of eight LPG vessels, but the risks remain high, and the confidence among Indian seafarers is fragile.

The Indian National Shipowners' Association will continue to monitor the situation, and the Indian government is expected to take further steps to ensure the safety of its seafarers and vessels in the region.