• Source:JND
HighLights
  1. MEA condemns attack on commercial vessel MT El Gaia near Oman.
  2. Thirteen Indian crew members rescued; search for one ongoing.
  3. Indian Embassy coordinating rescue efforts with Omani authorities.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Sunday condemned an attack on the commercial vessel MT El Gaia off the coast of Oman, adding that 13 Indian crew members have been rescued while search and rescue operations are underway for one Indian national who remains missing.

"We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel MT El Gaia off the coast of Oman earlier today. Of the 14 Indian crew onboard, 13 Indians have been rescued so far. Search and rescue operations for the missing Indian national are continuing," the ministry said in a statement.

"Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and proactively coordinating with the Omani authorities in the ongoing Search and Rescue operation. We thank the Omani authorities for their support in rescuing our nationals," it added.

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India Calls For Immediate De-Escalation

The MEA reiterated its call for immediate de-escalation of tensions through dialogue and diplomacy against the backdrop of escalating tensions in West Asia. New Delhi stressed that the targeting of commercial shipping, seafarers, and civilian infrastructure in the region is unacceptable.

Iranian Cargo Vessel Struck In Strait Of Hormuz

Earlier today, an Iranian cargo vessel was struck off Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran tensions. According to Iranian media, one person was killed and four were injured in the strike, with the Qeshm governor blaming a "terrorist enemy" for Sunday’s attack.

"A merchant vessel was struck around 5:00 am (0130 GMT) this morning off the coasts of Hengam and Qeshm islands. One person was killed, and three others were injured," Qeshm city governor Amir Teymouri said, according to state TV.

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The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) monitor later said it had received reports of a vessel being struck by an unknown projectile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The incident comes a day before a meeting between Iran and Gulf states in Oman to discuss the blockaded route, which is crucial for global oil and gas trade.


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