New Delhi, 03 November (H.S.): India has strongly condemned an attack on a commercial vessel off the coast of Oman that resulted in the death of an Indian national. Fourteen Indian nationals were aboard the vessel at the time of the incident, of whom 13 were rescued, while one succumbed to injuries sustained in the attack.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said India condemned the attack on the commercial vessel MSV AL JUSUFI, which occurred near Limah, Oman, on Monday evening.

According to the ministry, 13 of the 14 Indian nationals aboard the vessel were rescued, while one Indian crew member died after sustaining injuries. The MEA expressed its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased.

The ministry further stated that the Indian Embassy in Oman was closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the Omani authorities to facilitate the early repatriation of the rescued Indian nationals and the mortal remains of the deceased.

Expressing serious concern over the continuing attacks on commercial shipping in the region, India reiterated its call for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and urged the parties concerned to conclude ongoing negotiations towards a diplomatic resolution, enabling peace and stability to return to the region.

The MEA also emphasised that commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure must not be targeted. It called for the earliest restoration of free and unhindered navigation and commercial activity through international waterways in the region, in accordance with international law.

India stressed that safeguarding commercial shipping and ensuring uninterrupted maritime trade are essential to maintaining regional stability and protecting international navigation routes.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar