Three Indian nationals remain missing while 21 others have been rescued following an attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Wednesday.
Condemning the attack, the MEA expressed concern over the worsening security situation in the region and called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions to safeguard civilian lives and maritime trade.
“The continuing incidents of attacks on shipping in the region are deeply worrisome and a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the region. We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions and a diplomatic resolution so that peace and stability can return to the region,” the ministry said in a statement.
According to international media reports, the Palau-flagged tanker transmitted a distress signal while operating near Sohar in the Gulf of Oman, reporting that its engine room had been struck and that a fire had broken out onboard. Sohar is located near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest shipping routes.
While the exact circumstances surrounding the attack remain unclear, maritime security agencies have reported that the vessel suffered significant damage, prompting an emergency response operation. Reports also indicated that at least one casualty may have occurred, although official confirmation is still awaited.
The MEA said India is closely monitoring the situation and remains in contact with relevant authorities regarding the welfare and whereabouts of the missing crew members.
“The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation through international waterways in accordance with international law must be restored at the earliest,” the ministry added.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region and follows another attack reported earlier this week on an oil tanker operating near the Strait of Hormuz. That vessel, carrying 24 Indian crew members, was damaged after being struck off the Omani coast, leading to the evacuation of those onboard.
The latest attack has renewed concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors, through which a significant share of global energy supplies passes each day. Search and rescue efforts for the three missing Indian nationals are continuing.
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