Our Bureau
New Delhi
A Liberia-flagged oil tanker carrying six Indian seafarers was hit by a projectile in the Arabian Gulf on November 10, leaving four crew members injured, including one Indian national. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the incident on Wednesday, adding that the injured Indian seafarer had sustained minor injuries and was safely taken ashore for further medical examination.
The vessel, identified as MT Fujairah Energy, was travelling from Al Ruwais to Dubai when it came under attack. The remaining 18 crew members, including five other Indian seafarers, were reported safe and accounted for.
In a post on X, Sonowal said the government was closely monitoring the situation and remained in contact with the ship management company to ensure the security, medical care and well-being of the crew members. He also assured that necessary assistance was being provided to the affected seafarers.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of commercial vessels navigating the strategically important Arabian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, amid heightened tensions in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported receiving information about an incident involving a tanker in the Strait of Hormuz on November 11. The agency said the status of the crew, extent of damage and possible environmental impact were not immediately known. It advised vessels operating in the region to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity.
The latest developments have intensified concerns over maritime security and the safety of seafarers operating across key shipping routes in the region.