A commercial oil tanker named MT El Gaiya, sailing under the flag of Panama, came under attack near the maritime coast of Oman. A total of 14 Indian crew members were onboard the vessel. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, 13 of these Indian nationals have been safely rescued, while one Indian sailor remains unaccounted for.
Rescue Operations and Diplomatic Stance
Intensive search and rescue operations are currently underway to locate the missing Indian sailor. The Indian Embassy located in Oman is closely coordinating with the local administration to monitor the unfolding situation. India has formally thanked the government of Oman for their prompt assistance in evacuating and securing the safety of the Indian nationals.
Strongly condemning the assault on the merchant vessel, India stated that targeting commercial ships, mariners, and ordinary citizens is completely intolerable. The country urged all parties to choose dialogue and diplomacy to restore regional peace, thereby ensuring that international maritime routes remain safe and unhindered for normal navigation.
Growing Security Concerns for Indian Seafarers
Amid the ongoing tensions in West Asia, the security of maritime vessels has emerged as a major concern for India. A large workforce of Indian sailors operates across shipping lanes worldwide. Data shared by the Ministry of External Affairs reveals that out of the 16 Indians who have lost their lives in the West Asia crisis so far, 10 were seafarers. Furthermore, five Indian sailors have lost their lives in various attacks within the Black Sea region.
Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised this vital issue during the BRICS summit, proposing the creation of a dedicated Sailor Emergency Assistance Network to protect mariners during times of crisis. The government has reiterated its commitment to collaborating with international partners to guarantee the safety of its citizens and maintain secure maritime traffic.
