New Delhi erupted in cautious optimism today as India’s Ministry of External Affairs announced a major breakthrough in the saga of 16 Indian sailors held captive by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Eight of the crew members aboard the seized oil tanker MT Valiant Roar have been granted release approvals, marking a significant diplomatic win after months of tense negotiations.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the glad tidings during a media briefing in the capital. He revealed that consular access had been secured, with embassy officials in Bandar Abbas personally meeting the sailors. ‘As per Iranian authorities, eight out of the 16 have been released. Once the necessary formalities are completed, they will be on their way home,’ Jaiswal assured, adding that India remains in constant touch with Tehran for the remaining eight.
The ordeal began in early December 2024 when IRGC forces intercepted the UAE-owned tanker in international waters near the UAE coast. The vessel, laden with oil, was impounded, leaving the 16 Indian crew members in limbo. India’s Tehran embassy was notified mid-December and immediately sprang into action, firing off requests for consular access on December 14.
Persistent diplomatic overtures followed—through letters, ambassador-level talks, and face-to-face meetings in Bandar Abbas and Tehran. The embassy also pressed for the sailors’ right to speak with their families back home. When reports surfaced of dwindling food and water supplies on the ship, the mission coordinated emergency provisions via the Iranian navy in early January.
Parallel efforts targeted the ship’s UAE-based owners and their Iran agents, urging them to provide legal representation in Iranian courts and ensure steady supplies of essentials. Dubai’s Indian consulate joined the fray, leaning on the company for legal aid and regular logistics support.
Jaiswal emphasized India’s unwavering commitment: ‘We’re in touch with Iranian officials regarding the other eight sailors. We’ll provide the best possible support for whatever they need.’ As the first batch prepares to return, hopes are high for a swift resolution to reunite all 16 with their loved ones, underscoring the power of persistent diplomacy in high-stakes scenarios.