A projectile strike targeted a commercial vessel navigating through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz near the coastline of Oman on Tuesday, leaving multiple personnel injured. The Panama-flagged vessel, identified as MT On Peace, came under direct fire while in transit, inflicting injuries on 12 crew members aboard. According to details shared by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), 11 of the injured maritime workers are of Indian origin.
Swift Evacuation and Medical Treatment in Khasab
The merchant ship was operating with a total compliment of 19 crew members at the time of the strike, of which 17 are Indian nationals. Following the impact, emergency search and rescue measures were immediately initiated with the direct intervention of Omani authorities and coast guard teams. Responders successfully evacuated the injured personnel from the ship and transported them to medical facilities in the Omani city of Khasab for emergency care. The Government of India expressed its deep appreciation to the administration of Oman for their prompt logistical and medical assistance during the crisis.
Diplomatic Condemnation Over Targeting of Merchant Marine
New Delhi registered a strong condemnation against the violent strike directed at the commercial carrier. The Ministry of External Affairs underscored that persistent assaults against vessels operating in regional waters represent an issue of grave concern for India. MEA stated that aggressive actions against merchant ships, civilian seafarers, and commercial maritime infrastructure must cease without delay, calling for an immediate halt to such escalations to maintain peace and stability across the region.
Calls for Normalcy in International Shipping Corridors
Reiterating its commitment to safe sea lines of communication, India demanded the urgent restoration of standard navigation and uninterrupted commercial transit through global waterways. The government highlighted that securing vital maritime lanes remains essential to protect maritime personnel and ensure unhindered international commerce without the constant threat of armed disruption.
