New Delhi: India has strongly condemned attacks on two merchant vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, describing them as unacceptable acts of violence against civilian shipping and seafarers. In a weekly briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday confirmed that one Indian seafarer was killed and several others were injured in the incidents. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically significant shipping lanes, carrying a substantial share of global energy supplies.
According to the MEA, the two vessels, MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa were carrying a combined crew of 46, including 30 Indian nationals. On board MT Al Bahiyah, which had 12 Indian crew members, one Indian national was killed while another sustained injuries. MT Mombasa, carrying 18 Indian seafarers, reported nine injured Indians, including two who are in serious condition, the MEA said on Tuesday.
Expressing condolences, the government said it extends its deepest sympathies to the family of the deceased seafarer and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
The MEA further said India’s Mission and diplomatic Post in the United Arab Emirates are closely monitoring the situation and remain in contact with UAE authorities to ensure all possible assistance for the affected Indian nationals.
In a strong diplomatic response, the Ministry summoned the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Iran in New Delhi on Wednesday and lodged a formal protest over the attacks.
India also condemned what it described as attacks on commercial shipping that threaten the safety of international maritime routes. The government said such violence endangers seafarers and disrupts free and secure navigation through critical international waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz.
The MEA further voiced deep concern over the renewed escalation of hostilities in West Asia and called for an immediate cessation of violence and a return to dialogue and diplomacy. It stressed that attacks targeting commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure must stop to restore free and unimpeded maritime navigation and international commerce in accordance with international law.
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