India has strongly condemned the attack on the Indian-flagged commercial vessel MSV Faize Noore Oliya, which sank in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen on August 4, 2026. In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that all 13 Indian nationals on board were rescued safely and said the government is closely monitoring the situation while coordinating with Yemeni authorities.
India Condemns Attack on Vessel
The Ministry of External Affairs described the attack on the Indian-flagged vessel as deeply concerning and reiterated India’s firm opposition to violence targeting commercial shipping in international waters.
According to the official statement, the vessel MSV Faize Noore Oliya came under attack before sinking in the Red Sea near Yemen. The MEA emphasized that attacks on merchant vessels pose a serious threat to international maritime security and global trade.
The government expressed gratitude that all 13 crew members survived the incident and were rescued without loss of life.
All 13 Nationals Rescued Safely
The MEA confirmed that every Indian national aboard the vessel has been rescued. It stated that India’s Embassy in Riyadh is actively coordinating with Yemeni authorities to ensure the continued safety, security and well-being of the rescued crew members.
Officials said the embassy remains in close contact with local authorities and is monitoring developments around the clock. Necessary assistance is being extended to the crew while arrangements are being made to address their immediate needs.
The government also thanked the Yemeni authorities for their prompt cooperation and support during the rescue operation.
Embassy Monitoring Situation Closely
India’s diplomatic mission in Riyadh has taken charge of coordinating with relevant authorities following the attack.
The MEA said the embassy is proactively working with Yemeni officials to ensure that all safety measures are in place for the rescued Indian nationals. The mission is also assessing the evolving security situation in the region and will continue extending all possible assistance to the affected crew.
The government stressed that the welfare of Indian citizens abroad remains a top priority.
Concern Over Maritime Security
Beyond the immediate incident, the Ministry expressed serious concern over the increasing number of attacks targeting commercial shipping in the Red Sea region.
The statement described the continuing attacks on merchant vessels as “deeply worrisome” and warned that such incidents threaten the stability of one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes.
New Delhi called for an immediate end to attacks on commercial shipping, emphasizing that international waterways must remain safe and open for global commerce.
Call for Free and Unimpeded Navigation
The MEA reaffirmed India’s long-standing support for freedom of navigation in accordance with international law.
The government urged all parties to ensure that commercial vessels can operate without fear of violence or disruption. It stressed that free and unimpeded navigation through international waterways is essential for global trade, energy supplies and economic stability.
New Delhi also underlined the importance of restoring normal maritime operations at the earliest while respecting international legal frameworks governing navigation.
Strategic Importance of the Red Sea
The Red Sea is one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors, connecting Asia, Europe and Africa through the Suez Canal. Thousands of commercial ships carrying energy supplies, food products and manufactured goods pass through the route every year.
Any disruption in the region has the potential to impact global supply chains, shipping costs and international trade. Security concerns in these waters have remained high due to repeated attacks on commercial vessels in recent years.
Also Read – Women Empowerment Milestone: Telangana Launches Career Programme Across 43 Colleges
India, whose trade heavily depends on secure sea routes, has consistently advocated for peaceful maritime operations and stronger international cooperation to protect merchant shipping.
Reaffirms Commitment to Maritime Safety
The latest statement reflects India’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens and supporting international efforts to maintain secure sea lanes.
By ensuring the safe rescue of all 13 Indian crew members and maintaining diplomatic coordination with Yemeni authorities, the government has demonstrated its focus on citizen safety while also calling for collective action to restore stability in the Red Sea.
New Delhi reiterated that attacks against commercial vessels are unacceptable and urged the international community to work together to protect global maritime trade and uphold international law.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel for real-time news updates and exclusive coverage.
