A commercial vessel that flies India’s flag has been attacked at sea off the coast of Oman, creating additional maritime security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz; a strategic shipping lane. India has condemned this act and stated the attack on a civilian ship is “unacceptable,” and also confirmed that the rescue of the crew was accomplished by authorities in Oman.
Attack Begins Fire, Vessel Said To Have Sunk
As reported, the attack occurred on a Wednesday, on the route from Somalia to the UAE. The vessel caught fire due to the explosion of the rocket and subsequently sank. Several international observers suspect that the vessel was struck by a drone or missile, but as of this time, no suspects have been identified and authorities have not confirmed the nature of the incident or who committed it.
Reports identify the vessel as either “Haji Ali” or “Haji Ali Shipping Company”; the vessel likely was carrying livestock to market when attacked while transiting through a volatile and dangerous section of ocean. Tension has increased within the region due to events related to the ongoing conflict with Iran.
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MEA Calls Attack ‘Unacceptable’
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released an emphatic response decrying the attack, with spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal saying that the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian seafarers is inexcusable and must come to an end.
“The attack on an Indian flagged merchant vessel yesterday off the coast of Oman is unacceptable; we condemn the targeting of both commercial vessels and civilian mariners,” said MEA.
In addition to condemning the attack, the ministry also emphasized that freedom of navigation and unhindered maritime commerce are critical for global trade and regional stability. India reiterated that innocent civilian crew members are never to be victims of geopolitical strife.
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Omani Coast Guards Confirmed Rescue of Crew Members
Although the event was very serious, all 14 seafarers were rescued without injury by Oman Coast Guardsmen. The rescue was completed by the Coast Guard at the Diba port after the operation.
India thanked Omani Coastguards for their expedited response as well as their rescue efforts. The successful evacuation of seamen prevented loss of life, even though it had been reported that the vessel itself had been destroyed in the attack.
The rescue operation has received widespread accolades due to the deteriorating security situation in the Gulf region and the increased dangers that commercial seafarers face.
Rising Threats in Strait of Hormuz
The assault yet again underscored the dangers that exist within the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest and strategically vital trade routes. A large proportion of oil and energy worldwide move through this narrow passageway connecting the Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf.
In recent months, there has been an increase in the number of attacks, seizures, and interruptions affecting commercial shipping vessels in this area due to the rising tensions between the US, Iran and Israel. Analysts believe that commercial shipping activity is being caught up in wider geopolitical conflicts, and that the likelihood of extended interruption will increase as these types of incidents continue.
Based on statements made by maritime professionals, since the start of conflicts in the region, at least two other Indian-flagged vessels have also been attacked. Maritime security experts worry that an increasing number of incidents could have a negative effect on shipping and trade route costs and energy markets.
India Monitoring Situation Closely
New Delhi is keeping a close watch on all developments within the Gulf Region, where there are tens of thousands of Indian sailors and workers working in both the shipping and energy sectors. Once again, New Delhi has called on all concerned parties to use restraint and engage in diplomatic dialogue and ensure the safety of all international maritime routes.
While India has not indicated who was responsible for the attack, it is expected that the incident will lead to multiple discussions surrounding maritime security cooperation throughout both the Indian Ocean and Gulf regions. It is anticipated that Indian officials will review the safety measures for all Indian vessels being operated in any conflict zones.
