India condemns attack on Indian-flagged ship off Oman coast, crew safe
New Delhi, May 14
India on Thursday condemned a recent attack on an Indian-flagged commercial vessel off the coast of Oman, calling the incident "unacceptable" and reiterating the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and civilian maritime activity amid the conflict in West Asia.
In an official statement, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India deplores the continued targeting of commercial shipping and civilian mariners in regional waters.
"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 said.
The Ministry confirmed that all Indian crew members aboard the vessel are safe following rescue efforts carried out by Omani authorities.
"All Indian crew on board are safe, and we thank the Omani authorities for rescuing them," the statement added.
India further emphasised the need to ensure the safety of maritime trade routes and civilian personnel operating in international waters.
"India reiterates that targeting commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members, or otherwise impeding freedom of navigation and commerce, should be avoided," the statement noted.
The incident comes amid rising tensions in the Gulf region and increased concerns over maritime security near key international shipping lanes.
Earlier in the day, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported a maritime security incident in the Gulf region, including the reported seizure of a vessel near the coast of the United Arab Emirates.
In its advisory, UKMTO said it received a report of an incident approximately 38 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates.
According to the advisory, the Company Security Officer (CSO) of the vessel reported that the ship had been boarded and taken over by "unauthorised personnel" while at anchor and was subsequently heading towards Iranian territorial waters.
"UKMTO has received a report of an incident 38NM northeast of Fujairah, United Arab Emirates. The CSO has reported that the vessel has been taken by unauthorised personnel whilst at anchor and is now bound for Iranian Territorial Waters," the advisory stated.
UKMTO said investigations into the incident are ongoing and advised vessels operating in the region to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The UKMTO report about the vessel being taken to Iranian waters is alarming. This is clearly linked to the West Asia tensions. India must leverage its diplomatic channels with Iran and Gulf states to ensure safe passage for commercial ships. Our economy depends on these sea routes.
So glad our crew is safe 🙏 This is the second such incident in recent months. While condemnation is necessary, we need concrete action - maybe joint patrols with Oman and other friendly nations to secure these waters. Our sailors risk their lives every day for global trade.
Good to hear all crew are safe, but I'm concerned about the government's response being limited to statements. We saw similar incidents last year and little changed. India should consider deploying naval escorts for Indian-flagged vessels in high-risk zones like the Gulf. This is about protecting our citizens and commerce.
This is why India needs to strengthen its maritime domain awareness and quick reaction capabilities. The Omani authorities did well, but we can't always depend on others for rescue. Proud of our government's immediate condemnation, but hope they're also working behind the scenes on preventive measures.
The timing of this incident is concerning - just when tensions are high in the region. India's condemnation is appropriate, but we also need to ask: who benefits from targeting Indian shipping? Our foreign policy needs to be more proactive in de-escalating regional conflicts. Safety of our seafarers should be paramount.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.