NEW DELHI: India has strongly condemned the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello near the coast of Oman, expressing deep concern over the safety of Indian nationals onboard and the growing threats to maritime security in the region.
“We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman earlier today,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in its statement.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the vessel was attacked earlier on Tuesday while operating in waters off Oman. The ship was carrying 24 Indian crew members. Of them, 21 have been rescued, while three Indians remain missing. Search and rescue operations are currently underway. “Of the 24 Indian crew onboard, 21 Indians have been rescued thus far and three Indians are reportedly missing,” the MEA stated.
India’s Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and is coordinating with Omani authorities to support the ongoing rescue efforts and ensure the safety of the affected crew members. “Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and proactively coordinating with the Omani authorities in the ongoing search and rescue operation,” the statement added.
In its statement, the MEA said the repeated attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply troubling and are a direct consequence of the continuing conflict and instability in the wider Middle East. New Delhi reiterated its call for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and urged all parties to pursue diplomatic solutions to restore peace and stability.
The government also emphasized that attacks on commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable and must stop. India stressed the importance of ensuring free and uninterrupted navigation through international waterways in accordance with international law.
“The continuing incidents of attacks on shipping in the region are deeply worrisome and a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the region,” India said while expressing concern over maritime security.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over maritime security in the region, a crucial route for global trade and energy supplies. Authorities continue efforts to locate the missing crew members as rescue operations remain ongoing. India reiterated its call for “immediate de-escalation of tensions” and urged all sides to pursue diplomatic efforts to restore peace and stability.
“The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end,” the MEA emphasized. India also called for the restoration of “free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways in keeping with international law” at the earliest.
