Another oil tanker carrying 24 Indian crew members came under suspected attack by the US military off the coast of Oman near the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, prompting strong condemnation from India.
While 21 of the crew members have been rescued, three Indian seafarers are still missing as a search operation is underway.
“We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman, earlier today. Of the 24 Indian crew onboard, 21 Indians have been rescued thus far and 03 Indians are reportedly missing,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.
The MEA further stated that Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities in the search and rescue operation.
The MEA said that the continuing incidents of attacks on commercial vessels in the region are deeply worrisome and a direct result of the ongoing conflict.
New Delhi called for “immediate de-escalation and conclusion of the ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran.
“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 statement added.
India also stressed that targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end.
“Free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region in keeping with international law must be restored at the earliest,” the ministry said.