Eight Indian seafarers detained in Iran since December have finally returned home after a prolonged and tense ordeal, worsened by the ongoing conflict in the region.
The sailors were part of an 18-member crew aboard MT Valiant Roar, a vessel operated by Dubai-based Prime Tankers LLC, which was seized by Iranian authorities over alleged fuel smuggling charges—claims denied by the company.
Delayed return amid war
While eight crew members had earlier returned to India in February, the remaining eight Indians faced delays after their release coincided with escalating military tensions following strikes involving the US and Israel.
Despite receiving release orders on February 27, the worsening security situation forced them to remain in Iran, as flights and border crossings were disrupted.
Crew members described harrowing conditions, with missiles falling nearby and constant fear gripping their days and nights. Some were initially held in jail in Bandar Abbas, while others remained on the ship.
Escape through land route
The evacuation process began with assistance from the Indian embassy in Tehran, which moved the crew to a hotel. However, ongoing hostilities meant they had to wait before a safe exit route became available.
On March 15, the group began a risky land journey towards Armenia, passing through areas affected by airstrikes. After waiting for visas near the border, they crossed into Armenia on March 27.
From there, they travelled to Yerevan and flew via Dubai before reaching Mumbai in the early hours of March 29.
Trauma and uncertainty linger
Several crew members said the experience left them deeply shaken, describing sleepless nights and constant fear of death. One of the sailors had even postponed his wedding due to the crisis.
Some also raised concerns about unpaid salaries and uncertainty over returning to work with the company.
The incident highlights the risks faced by Indian seafarers working in volatile regions and the challenges of evacuation during active conflict.