December 25, 2024 - Mumbai, India: In a moment of relief and celebration, nine Indian crew members of the ISA Star vessel returned safely to Mumbai today after surviving a missile strike near Yemen earlier this month. The vessel was hit on December 5, 2024, amid ongoing conflicts in the Red Sea, which have increasingly endangered commercial shipping.

The safe return of the seafarers marks the success of an intense repatriation effort led by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), along with the seafarers' unions NUSI and ITWF. In collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the authorities coordinated with international partners to ensure the crew's swift and safe repatriation from Djibouti. The efforts were spearheaded by Capt. Dr. Daniel Joseph, Deputy Director General of Shipping and head of the DGS Crew branch, who played a crucial role in securing the crew's safe return.

This incident is one of several recent attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, drawing renewed attention to the growing dangers in one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes. The ISA Star incident highlighted the vulnerability of commercial vessels operating near the Yemeni coast, raising alarm within global maritime circles.

Families greeted the returning seafarers with emotional embraces at Mumbai's international terminal. Medical personnel were present to offer any necessary support, but initial reports confirm that all crew members are in good health following their ordeal.

The successful operation underscores the importance of international maritime cooperation during crises. Both seafarers’ unions and maritime organizations hailed the coordinated efforts of DG Shipping, led by Capt. Dr. Daniel Joseph, the MEA, and global maritime authorities in ensuring the crew's safety.

"We are incredibly grateful for the swift actions taken by all parties involved," said one family member during the reunion. "Having our loved ones back safe is an immense relief for all of us."

The incident has sparked renewed calls for bolstered security measures in volatile international waters, especially in regions prone to maritime conflict. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with a focus on safeguarding shipping lanes to protect seafarers from future threats.

The maritime community has lauded this repatriation as a significant achievement in protecting seafarers' welfare, but also as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining safety and vigilance in high-risk zones.

This successful rescue and repatriation emphasize the need for enhanced security protocols to ensure the continued safety of commercial maritime operations worldwide.