gulf shores

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.

Commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz faces immense risks despite remaining technically open, with Indian vessels experiencing significant disruptions and safety concerns. Seafarers exhibit hesitation due to past incidents, impacting normal traffic flow and leading to increased operational costs for shipowners.

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Dhanushkodi, a town ravaged by a 1964 cyclone, is slowly reviving with 200 families returning to its ruins. Despite improved connectivity, residents face challenges like no electricity or proper water supply. Environmental concerns and regulatory hurdles slow development, leaving the town suspended in time, awaiting a clear rebuilding plan.

Operation Sindoor showcased India's potent military response to a terror attack, demonstrating its ability to strike deep into Pakistan and dominate escalation ladders against nuclear rivals. The 88-hour operation highlighted India's conventional superiority, while also spurring advancements in air defence, drone warfare, and joint military operations to counter evolving threats.

Blockade of Hormuz hurts world’s poor most, because cost of living has shot up, and food security is at risk. UAE envoy to India argues for a resolution that ensures Hormuz is never weaponised again

Iran knows it cannot compete with the US and its allies in a conventional naval contest. Instead, by deploying swarms of armed speedboats, it is turning the Strait of Hormuz chokepoint into leverage

Iran & America are both making access to a maritime route contingent on their politics, in violation of international codes. Those who depend on Hormuz and are maritime powers, like India, cannot endorse such discretionary access

The US has deployed sea drones known as GARC for patrol missions under ‘Operation Epic Fury’ against Iran — the first time Washington has confirmed using such vessels in an active conflict. But how effective are they likely to be?

Low-tech Iranian mines and drones are paralyzing commercial traffic in the Gulf, challenging the US Navy's dominance. This echoes WWI's Battle of Gallipoli, where mines hobbled Britain's mighty fleet. Iran's asymmetric tactics threaten global supply chains and could impact US elections.

India sees a cautious easing of maritime movement as three crude oil tankers successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, with two more LPG tankers preparing to follow. This comes after diplomatic engagements with Iran, ensuring safe passage for Indian vessels amidst regional tensions. The successful transits underscore India's commitment to securing unhindered movement for its fleet.

Generations of Indian workers and businesses have turned the Arab side of the Gulf into a vital appendage of their own country.

As Middle East tensions rise, Iran's hidden underwater threats, particularly its Ghadir-class midget submarines and extensive naval mine stockpiles, pose a significant challenge to global shipping. These stealthy assets, capable of operating in shallow waters and laying mines, can disrupt vital oil transit routes like the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global trade far more effectively than visible attacks.

The Middle East war has intensified an oil crisis as Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz disrupt global energy supplies. While the Red Sea's Bab el-Mandeb Strait is considered an alternative, it also faces threats. Reopening Hormuz is complicated by its geography and requires significant security measures, including a multinational coalition, to overcome the risks of attacks and minefields.

A Russian tanker carrying oil is heading towards Cuba, intensifying a geopolitical standoff with the US. This move challenges America's de facto oil blockade on the island, which is facing an energy crisis. The situation echoes the Cuban Missile Crisis, highlighting Cuba's enduring strategic importance and testing US resolve in its hemisphere.