India's Ministry of External Affairs labeled the assault on a commercial ship carrying Indian crew near Oman as "deeply worrisome." Ten of the 11 Indian nationals were rescued, while one remains missing amid rising maritime threats in the Middle East.
Key Takeaways
- Attack on vessel GFS Galaxy carrying Indian crew off Oman
- MEA condemns the incident; 10 Indians rescued, 1 missing
- Call for de‑escalation of Middle East tensions and safe navigation
New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday issued a strong condemnation of the attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy near Oman’s coastline, describing the incident as "deeply worrisome." The ship, flagged in Cyprus, was transporting 11 Indian nationals when it was struck, leaving ten rescued and one still unaccounted for.
Incident timeline and immediate response
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities on the ongoing search‑and‑rescue operation. "We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman earlier today. Of the 11 Indian nationals on board, 10 have been rescued so far, while one Indian national is reportedly missing," he stated, adding gratitude for Omani support.
Regional security backdrop
The attack unfolded hours after the United States launched its third round of strikes against Iran, accusing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of targeting the same vessel while it transited the strategic Strait of Hormuz. According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), the strike caused severe engine‑room damage and sparked a fire aboard the ship.
MEA’s diplomatic appeal
In the same statement, the ministry reiterated New Delhi’s call for an immediate de‑escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran, urging that “the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end.” It emphasized the need for “free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region, in keeping with international law.”
Implications and international reaction
Maritime security experts warn that repeated assaults on commercial vessels threaten global energy supply chains, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a vital artery for oil transport. The incident is likely to intensify calls for stronger multilateral naval patrols and stricter enforcement of international maritime law. India, meanwhile, is expected to deepen bilateral security cooperation with Oman and other Gulf partners to safeguard its seafarers and trade routes.
