New Delhi: An Indian sailor was killed and eight other crew members were injured after two UAE-affiliated oil tankers were struck by Iranian cruise missiles while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, marking a serious escalation in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
According to the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defence, the attack targeted the oil tankers Mombasa and Al Bahiyah as they sailed through the southern shipping lane in Omani territorial waters. The strike claimed the life of one Indian crew member, while eight others sustained injuries, including several reported to be in critical condition.
Following the incident, the Government of India strongly condemned the attack and summoned senior Iranian diplomats, including Iran’s Deputy Chief of Mission, to the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi. During the meeting, Indian officials lodged a formal protest and expressed deep concern over the safety of Indian nationals working aboard commercial vessels in the region.
The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated that the protection of Indian citizens remains a top priority and called for restraint to prevent further escalation in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime corridor through which a significant portion of the world’s oil trade passes.
The missile strike has heightened concerns over the security of international shipping lanes amid the intensifying confrontation between Iran and the United States. Several countries have urged all parties to avoid actions that could further destabilize the region and disrupt global energy supplies.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the condition of the injured crew members, while diplomatic efforts are underway to address the rapidly evolving security situation in the Gulf.
