Indian national killed in vessel attack near Oman; 13 rescued as India calls for de-escalation

India on Tuesday strongly condemned an attack on commercial vessel MSV AL JUSUFI near Limah in Oman that left one Indian national dead and 13 others rescued. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed concern over repeated attacks on commercial shipping in the region and called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions.

According to the MEA, 14 Indian nationals were aboard the vessel when it came under attack on Monday evening. While 13 were rescued, one Indian national succumbed to injuries sustained in the incident.

What did India say about the vessel attack near Oman?

In an official statement, the MEA condemned the incident and said the Indian Embassy in Oman was coordinating with local authorities to facilitate the repatriation of the survivors and the mortal remains of the deceased.

"We condemn the attack on a commercial vessel MSV AL JUSUFI, near Limah, Oman yesterday evening. Of the 14 Indian nationals on board, 13 have been rescued while 1 Indian national tragically lost his life after sustaining injuries. We convey our deepest condolences on the precious life lost. Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the Omani authorities for the early repatriation of the rescued Indian nationals and the mortal remains of the deceased," the MEA mentioned in a statement.

Why has India called for immediate de-escalation?

Expressing concern over the continuing attacks on merchant vessels, India reiterated the need for diplomatic efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.

"The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply concerning. We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions, and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region. The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region, in keeping with international law, must be restored at the earliest," the MEA said.

What happened to Indian sailors aboard MT Petro Dolphin?

The latest incident follows a drone attack on tanker MT Petro Dolphin at Sohar Anchorage in Oman on October 11.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said the vessel was carrying 11 Indian seafarers, of whom nine were rescued and two remained missing.

"On October 11, tanker MT Petro Dolphin, carrying 11 Indian seafarers, was subjected to a drone attack at Sohar Anchorage. While nine of our Indian crew members have been successfully rescued and are safe, two Indian nationals currently remain missing," Sonowal said on social media platform X.

Providing an update on rescue efforts, he added:

"Search-and-rescue operations are actively underway by the local Coast Guard. We are continuously coordinating with all relevant authorities to fully support the ongoing rescue efforts and ensure every possible action is taken to safely locate our missing personnel," he added.

The Indian Embassy in Oman also confirmed that it was coordinating with the relevant authorities regarding the Nicaragua-flagged tanker.

"The Embassy is closely monitoring the situation concerning MT Petro Dolphin, a Nicaragua-flagged tanker. Two of the 11 Indian seafarers onboard are reported missing. The Embassy is in close and continuous contact with the concerned authorities," the Embassy said on X.

What happened in the earlier Strait of Hormuz attack?

On October 6, India condemned another attack involving MT On Peace, which was struck by a projectile while passing through the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman.

According to the MEA, the vessel was carrying 17 Indian nationals among its crew. The attack left 12 crew members injured, including 11 Indians.

Following that incident, India had called for an immediate cessation of attacks on commercial vessels in the interest of regional peace and stability.

The latest attack on MSV AL JUSUFI marks another incident involving Indian seafarers in the region, with New Delhi reiterating its demand for the protection of commercial shipping, civilian infrastructure and freedom of navigation through international waterways.