Onlykashmir.in News Desk
India has strongly condemned an attack on the commercial vessel MSV AL JUSUFI near Limah, Oman, on Monday evening, in which one Indian national lost his life while 13 others were rescued.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said 14 Indian nationals were aboard the vessel when the attack took place. Thirteen were rescued, while one succumbed to injuries sustained in the incident.
The MEA conveyed its condolences over the loss of life and said the Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities for the early repatriation of the rescued Indian nationals and the mortal remains of the deceased.
Expressing concern over continuing attacks on commercial shipping in the region, India called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations towards a diplomatic solution. “The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end,” the ministry said. It added that free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways in the region, in accordance with international law, must be restored at the earliest.
The incident underlines the risks faced by seafarers working on commercial vessels in and around the Gulf region. Limah lies on the Musandam peninsula in northern Oman, close to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints. A large share of global energy supplies passes through these waters, and any threat to shipping there draws swift international concern.
Indian crew members form a significant part of the workforce on many merchant and dhow-type vessels operating in the region, which makes such incidents a matter of direct consequence for Indian families and for the government’s consular machinery. The Embassy’s coordination with Omani authorities is expected to focus on medical care, documentation and the safe return of the survivors, as well as the repatriation of the deceased crew member.
The MEA statement did not identify those responsible for the attack, and no further details on the circumstances were included. The emphasis was instead on the broader call for restraint and a diplomatic resolution. India has consistently pressed for the protection of civilian shipping and the preservation of freedom of navigation under international law, and the latest statement is in line with that position.
The ministry said it would continue to monitor developments. Families of the affected crew members will be looking to the Embassy and the Ministry for timely updates as the repatriation process gets under way.
