India Strongly Condemns Attack on Indian-Flagged Vessel Off Oman Coast, Crew Rescued Safely

India has voiced strong disapproval following an attack on an Indian-flagged cargo vessel near the Omani coast, describing the incident as “unacceptable” and highlighting the growing risks to commercial shipping and civilian mariners in a volatile maritime region.

Vessels in the Strait of Hormuz near Bandar Abbas, Iran. Representative image: Reuters File | Firstpost

MEA’s Firm Response

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a clear statement on Thursday condemning the attack on the vessel, which occurred on May 13. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasised that targeting commercial ships and endangering innocent crew members undermines freedom of navigation and international commerce. “The attack on an Indian-flagged ship off the coast of Oman yesterday is unacceptable and we deplore the fact that commercial shipping and civilian mariners continue to be targeted,” the statement read. India also extended gratitude to Omani authorities for their swift rescue efforts.

All 14 Indian crew members aboard the vessel are reported safe. They were promptly rescued by the Oman Coast Guard and Royal Oman Police and taken to safety at Dibba port.

Incident Details

The vessel in question, identified as the MSV Haji Ali (BDI 1492), was a livestock carrier owned by a resident of Salaya port in Gujarat’s Devbhoomi Dwarka district. It was en route from Berbera port in Somalia to Sharjah in the UAE when it encountered a major explosion around 3:30 am local time near Limah, off Oman’s northern coast, close to the Strait of Hormuz. A fire broke out rapidly, forcing the crew to abandon ship in lifeboats. The vessel subsequently sank.

Preliminary reports from maritime security sources suggest the explosion may have resulted from a drone or missile strike, though neither Indian nor Omani authorities have officially confirmed the exact cause or assigned responsibility. Omani police have initiated a formal investigation into the matter.

Regional Maritime Security Challenges

This incident takes place amid heightened tensions in West Asia, where the Strait of Hormuz — a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies — has seen increased disruptions. India, which relies significantly on these sea routes for energy imports and trade, has repeatedly called for the protection of civilian shipping and unimpeded navigation in the area.

Earlier in April 2026, attacks were reported on other Indian-flagged vessels attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz, prompting India to express deep concern and engage diplomatically with relevant parties. The government continues to monitor developments closely, with Indian Navy assets deployed in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman to safeguard Indian maritime interests.

The MGMM Outlook 

India’s strong condemnation of the attack on an Indian-flagged vessel near Oman reflects its growing assertiveness in defending national maritime interests and protecting Indian citizens working across global shipping routes. The swift rescue of all 14 Indian crew members by Omani authorities highlights the importance of regional cooperation, while New Delhi’s diplomatic response reinforces its commitment to safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that commercial shipping lanes remain secure amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

The incident also underscores the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz for India’s energy security and trade connectivity. With repeated disruptions in the region, India’s enhanced naval presence and continued diplomatic engagement signal a broader shift toward proactive maritime security management. Strengthening partnerships with regional stakeholders and maintaining vigilance in critical sea lanes will remain essential as India seeks to protect its economic interests and support stability in one of the world’s most sensitive maritime corridors.

(Sources: Firstpost, Times of India, Economic Times)