New Delhi on Tuesday issued a strong condemnation of the attacks on two commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, describing them as unacceptable acts of violence against civilian seafarers and a serious threat to free and safe navigation through international waterways. In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said New Delhi was deeply concerned over the incidents, which claimed the life of one Indian seafarer and left several others injured.
The attacks targeted the merchant vessels MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa, both of which were carrying Indian crew members while passing through one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes. The MEA said the incidents underscore the growing security challenges in the West Asian region and called for an immediate halt to violence.
Strongly Condemns Attacks on Commercial Shipping
Placing its condemnation at the forefront, the Ministry of External Affairs said attacks on civilian vessels and maritime workers are unacceptable and violate the principles of safe international navigation.
“We strongly condemn these attacks and acts of violence targeting seafarers and disrupting free and safe navigation through international waterways like the Strait of Hormuz,” the MEA said.
The ministry stressed that commercial shipping should never become a target during regional conflicts and reiterated that uninterrupted maritime trade is essential for global stability, energy security and international commerce.
One Seafarer Killed, Several Injured
According to the MEA, the two vessels had a combined crew of 46 members, including 30 Indian seafarers.
Onboard MT Al Bahiyah, there were 12 Indian nationals. One seafarer was killed in the attack, while another sustained injuries.
The second vessel, MT Mombasa, had 18 Indian crew members. Nine were injured during the incident, with two reported to be in serious condition and receiving medical attention.
Expressing grief over the loss of life, the government extended its condolences to the bereaved family and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased Indian national and wish speedy recovery to those injured,” the ministry stated.
Missions Coordinating Assistance
The MEA said India’s diplomatic Mission and Post in the United Arab Emirates are actively monitoring the situation and remain in close contact with local authorities.
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Officials are working with the UAE government to ensure all possible assistance, including medical support and welfare measures, is provided to the affected crew members.
The government also assured that it is keeping a close watch on developments and will continue extending every necessary support to nationals involved in the incident.
Iranian Diplomat Summoned Over the Incident
As part of its diplomatic response, India summoned the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Iran in New Delhi.
During the meeting, the Ministry of External Affairs lodged a strong protest over the attacks and conveyed India’s serious concerns regarding the safety of seafarers operating in the region.
The move reflects New Delhi’s determination to safeguard its citizens working aboard international commercial vessels and to raise concerns through diplomatic channels.
Immediate End to Violence
Beyond condemning the attacks, New Delhi also expressed deep concern over the renewed escalation of hostilities across West Asia.
The MEA warned that continued violence threatens regional peace and increases risks to civilian shipping and international trade.
“We reiterate our deep concern on account of the resumption of attacks and escalation of hostilities in the West-Asian region and call for immediate cessation of violence and a return to dialogue and diplomacy in the interests of peace, security and stability in the region,” the statement said.
New Delhi urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint and resolve differences through peaceful dialogue rather than military confrontation.
Free Navigation Must Be Protected
The Ministry emphasized that international waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz are vital for global commerce and must remain open and secure.
It called for an immediate end to attacks on merchant ships and civilian infrastructure, stressing that freedom of navigation is protected under international law.
“The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must cease in order that free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways, in keeping with international law, can be restored at the earliest,” the MEA said.
The statement highlights India’s consistent position that maritime security is essential not only for regional stability but also for the uninterrupted flow of global trade and energy supplies.
Commitment to Maritime Security
With thousands of Indian seafarers serving aboard merchant vessels worldwide, the government reiterated its commitment to protecting their safety and welfare. It also reaffirmed support for international efforts aimed at ensuring secure sea lanes and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
The MEA’s statement reflects India’s firm diplomatic stance against violence targeting civilian shipping and underscores its appeal for restraint, dialogue and adherence to international law. As tensions continue in the West Asian region, New Delhi has made it clear that the safety of seafarers and the protection of international maritime routes must remain a global priority.
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