Source The Hindu
New Delhi: India on Tuesday issued a strong condemnation following a deadly attack on a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz that resulted in the death of an Indian sailor. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that both vessels involved in the incident were carrying a total of 30 Indian seafarers, raising serious concerns about the safety of maritime personnel in the volatile region.
According to official sources, the attack occurred amid heightened tensions in the Gulf, a critical route for global oil shipments. While details about the perpetrators and the exact nature of the assault remain unclear, the Indian government described the incident as “deeply disturbing” and called for immediate accountability.
In a statement, the MEA emphasized that the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad remain a top priority. “We strongly condemn the attack on the vessel that led to the loss of an Indian life. We are closely monitoring the situation and are in touch with relevant authorities to ensure the safety of all Indian crew members,” the statement said.
Indian authorities have also initiated diplomatic engagement with countries in the region to gather more information and prevent further escalation. The government urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and ensure that maritime routes remain safe and secure for international shipping.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important waterways, handling a significant portion of global oil trade. Any disruption in this region not only impacts energy markets but also poses risks to international maritime operations.
The incident has once again highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by seafarers, especially in conflict-prone zones. Maritime experts have called for enhanced international cooperation to safeguard shipping lanes and protect crew members from such threats.
Meanwhile, the Indian government is coordinating with shipping companies and local authorities to provide assistance to the affected crew and the family of the deceased sailor. Further investigations into the attack are ongoing.
