India Confirms Consular Access to 16 Detained Sailors in Iran; Eight Released

  • Feb. 5, 2026, 4 p.m.

India has confirmed that it has been granted consular access to the 16 Indian sailors detained in Iran, with eight of them already released and set to return home, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday.

Addressing the media, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that Indian officials based in Bandar Abbas have personally met the detained sailors and are actively coordinating with Iranian authorities to ensure their welfare and early resolution of the matter.

“We’ve had consular access to the 16 sailors in Iran. Our officials in Bandar Abbas have met with them. Of those 16, eight people, according to the Iranian authorities, have been released and will be returning home,” Jaiswal said. He added that discussions are ongoing regarding the remaining eight sailors who are still in Iranian custody.

According to the MEA, the Indian government remains in constant communication with Iranian officials at multiple levels to facilitate the release of the remaining sailors. “With regards to the remaining eight sailors, we are in touch with the Iranian authorities. We will see how best to support them,” the spokesperson said, underscoring India’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of its citizens abroad.

While specific details regarding the circumstances of the sailors’ detention have not been publicly disclosed, sources indicated that the case is being handled through diplomatic channels to ensure a swift and amicable resolution. The MEA has also assured families of the sailors that their well-being remains a top priority.

India and Iran share longstanding diplomatic and economic ties, and both sides have previously cooperated on consular matters involving nationals of either country. The MEA emphasized that such engagements are being conducted in a constructive manner, keeping humanitarian considerations at the forefront.

The development comes as a relief to the families of the released sailors, who have been anxiously awaiting official confirmation. The Indian government reiterated that it will continue to extend all necessary assistance until the remaining sailors are safely released and reunited with their families.

Author : Rajdhani Delhi Representative

Rajdhani delhi representative

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