global shipping routes

India has successfully navigated the Middle East crisis, ensuring stable fuel supplies and uninterrupted maritime operations. Despite global price surges, consumers are shielded through excise duty cuts and increased domestic production. State-run oil companies are absorbing significant daily losses to maintain current prices, while Indian seafarers in the Gulf remain safe and maritime operations at Indian ports are normal.

An India-linked supertanker, Sarv Shakti, has successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy corridor under intense pressure due to Middle East tensions. This passage marks a significant breakthrough for India, the world's second-largest LPG consumer, as it secures essential cooking fuel amid disrupted supply chains and a US blockade on Iran-linked shipping.

US naval actions have significantly disrupted oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, forcing six tankers carrying millions of barrels of Iranian oil back to Iran. While some vessels are being diverted, others have managed to pass, highlighting the ongoing impact of the conflict on global oil exports and the plight of stranded seafarers.

The US has warned shipping companies against making payments to Iran for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, citing sanctions risks. This alert comes amid rising tensions and disruptions to global oil trade, with Iran rerouting vessels and charging fees. The US has also imposed a naval blockade, further straining energy markets and complicating diplomatic efforts.

The Indian rupee hit a historic low against the US dollar, pressured by corporate demand and soaring crude oil prices. Authorities are considering measures like incentivizing foreign currency deposits and easing tax rules for overseas investors to boost dollar inflows.

With overseas Puja committees rethinking priorities amid global uncertainty, the idols makers are growing jittery about delays

Pakistan is foregoing urgent LNG purchases, betting on a swift de-escalation of Middle East tensions and the timely arrival of cheaper Qatari shipments. This risky strategy comes as the country faces a significant gas deficit and widespread electricity outages, exacerbated by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

A fire aboard a wooden dhow near the Strait of Hormuz resulted in the death of one Indian sailor and injuries to four others. Seventeen Indian crew members were rescued by a passing vessel. The incident occurred amidst heightened regional tensions, with recent exchanges between Iran and the United States in the vital shipping lane.

Iran is reportedly considering using mine-carrying dolphins against US warships in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising regional tensions and an economic blockade. This unusual tactic, reflecting a push for new weapons, follows Iran's past acquisition of military-trained dolphins. The move comes as hardliners view the blockade as an act of war, potentially leading to renewed conflict.

Oil prices surged Friday as US-Iran tensions flared, reversing earlier declines. US strikes on Iranian targets prompted accusations of ceasefire violations, escalating fears over the vital Strait of Hormuz. This geopolitical volatility overshadows concerns about suspicious trading activity linked to policy announcements, impacting global energy supplies and inflation.

A suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the luxury expedition ship MV Hondius has resulted in three deaths and several serious illnesses, prompting an international health response. The virus, typically spread by rodents, has raised concerns due to its rapid escalation and potential for severe respiratory complications. Authorities are working to contain the crisis and evacuate affected passengers.

The UK government is temporarily relaxing airport slot rules to help airlines manage potential summer travel disruption caused by global jet fuel market pressures. This move aims to prevent sudden cancellations and "ghost flights" by allowing airlines to adjust schedules in advance, ensuring greater passenger confidence and realistic planning.