Guwahati: India on Sunday strongly condemned the attack on the merchant vessel GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman, saying the continued targeting of commercial shipping in the region is “deeply worrisome” and calling for an immediate de-escalation of tensions.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said 11 Indian nationals were on board the vessel when it came under attack. Of them, 10 have been rescued, while one Indian seafarer remains missing. India’s Embassy in Oman is coordinating closely with Omani authorities, who are continuing search and rescue operations.
In a statement, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal thanked the Omani authorities for their support and reiterated India’s concern over repeated attacks on civilian shipping in the region.
“The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region,” the ministry said.
According to reports, the vessel was attacked off the Omani coast amid renewed tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Initial reports indicated the ship sustained significant damage, while one crew member remains unaccounted for. Authorities have not yet released further details on the circumstances of the attack.
The latest incident has heightened concerns over the safety of international shipping in one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes, which has witnessed a series of attacks in recent months amid escalating regional hostilities.