Our Bureau
New Delhi
An Indian seafarer was killed and 13 others were rescued after an Indian-flagged cargo vessel, MSV Al Jusufi, came under attack off the coast of Oman, raising fresh concerns over maritime security in the region. The incident involved an unidentified aerial object that struck the vessel, triggering an emergency rescue operation.
The deceased was identified as Gandhar Nahim Ajij, a resident of Gujarat. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the incident on Tuesday, stating that the vessel was struck on November 2 while navigating near the Omani coastline. The 13 surviving crew members were safely evacuated and rescued by the Omani Coast Guard. The exact nature of the aerial object and the source of the attack have not yet been established.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the attack, which took place near Limah, Oman, on Monday evening. It said the Indian Embassy in Oman was coordinating with local authorities to provide assistance to the rescued sailors and facilitate their early repatriation, along with the mortal remains of the deceased seafarer.
Expressing concern over repeated attacks on commercial shipping in the region, the MEA called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and urged the parties involved to pursue diplomatic negotiations to restore peace and stability.
The ministry also stressed that commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure must not be targeted. It called for the restoration of free and uninterrupted navigation and trade through international waterways in accordance with international law.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia, where security concerns surrounding important maritime trade routes have increased. The attack has once again brought attention to the safety of Indian seafarers operating in the region and the need to protect commercial vessels navigating international waters.