India Firmly Presses Iran For Consular Access to 16 Crew Of Seized Tanker

India has formally urged Iranian authorities to grant consular access to 16 Indian nationals who were part of the crew of an oil tanker seized by Iran last month, while also pressing for the swift completion of judicial proceedings against them. The Indian Embassy in Tehran confirmed the development on Saturday amid growing concern over the welfare of the detained sailors.

According to officials, the oil tanker Valiant Roar, operated by Dubai-based Glory International FZ-LLC, was boarded and seized by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on December 8. The vessel was intercepted on allegations of fuel smuggling, a charge that Iranian authorities have leveled against the entire crew.

The crew of the tanker comprises 16 Indian nationals, along with one Bangladeshi and one Sri Lankan citizen. While Iranian officials have initiated legal proceedings in the matter, Indian authorities have sought clarity on the status of the case and have emphasized the need for transparency and adherence to due process.

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In a statement, the Indian Embassy in Tehran said it has taken up the matter strongly with the Iranian government. The embassy has requested immediate consular access to the Indian crew members and has conveyed the importance of ensuring their safety, well-being, and fair treatment during the legal process.

Indian officials have also urged Iran to expedite the judicial proceedings, citing humanitarian concerns and the prolonged uncertainty faced by the crew and their families. Diplomatic sources indicated that New Delhi remains in regular touch with Iranian authorities and is closely monitoring developments related to the case.

The seizure of the Valiant Roar has added to existing sensitivities in the region amid heightened maritime security and enforcement actions in strategic waterways. India has reiterated that it expects all countries to respect international norms and consular obligations while continuing diplomatic engagement to secure the early resolution of the matter and the release of its nationals.

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