NEW DELHI: India has summoned senior Iranian diplomats, including the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Iranian Embassy, following a missile strike on two UAE oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz that claimed the life of an Indian sailor and left several crew members injured. The move marks a sharp diplomatic response by New Delhi to one of the deadliest attacks involving Indian nationals amid escalating tensions in the strategically important maritime corridor.
According to official sources, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called in Iranian representatives to formally convey India’s strong concern over the attack, which occurred in Omani territorial waters near the southern shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz. The meeting focused on the safety of Indian citizens working aboard commercial vessels in the Gulf region and the need to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.
Indian sailor killed, several others injured
The diplomatic protest follows an attack in which two UAE oil tankers—identified as Mombasa and Al Bahiyah—were reportedly struck by Iranian cruise missiles while navigating the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes caused extensive damage to both vessels and triggered fires onboard.
One Indian crew member aboard the tanker Mombasa lost his life in the attack. Eight other crew members sustained injuries, including six Indian nationals and two Ukrainian sailors. Reports indicate that four of the injured remain in critical condition and are undergoing treatment.
The UAE authorities strongly condemned the missile strike, describing it as a serious breach of international law and an unacceptable threat to commercial shipping operating in international waters.
MEA registers strong protest
Following confirmation of the casualties, the Ministry of External Affairs summoned Iran’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Mohammad Javad Hosseini, to South Block in New Delhi.
During the meeting, Indian officials conveyed New Delhi’s deep concern over the death of an Indian citizen and injuries suffered by other crew members. India also stressed the importance of ensuring the safety and security of merchant vessels passing through one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes.
Government sources indicated that the diplomatic démarche reflected India’s expectation that all parties respect international maritime law and take necessary measures to safeguard civilian shipping operating in the region.
Strait of Hormuz remains a global flashpoint
The Strait of Hormuz is among the world’s most strategically significant waterways, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. A substantial portion of global crude oil exports passes through this narrow sea route every day, making any disruption a matter of international concern.
For India, the Strait holds particular importance because a significant share of the country’s crude oil imports and commercial trade transits through these waters. Thousands of Indian seafarers also serve aboard international merchant vessels operating in the Gulf region.
Recent months have witnessed growing instability in the area due to heightened regional tensions, increasing the risks faced by commercial shipping and maritime workers.
Safety of Indian nationals remains priority
India has consistently maintained that the safety of its citizens abroad remains a top priority. The government has been closely monitoring developments in West Asia and has repeatedly urged all sides to avoid actions that could endanger civilian lives or disrupt international maritime trade.
Officials are also coordinating with relevant authorities to provide assistance to the injured Indian crew members and facilitate necessary support for the family of the deceased sailor.
The latest incident adds to concerns over the security of international shipping routes, especially as merchant vessels continue to face heightened risks in the Gulf region.
International concern over maritime security
The attack has once again drawn attention to the vulnerability of commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. International observers have warned that continued attacks on civilian vessels could have far-reaching consequences for global energy supplies, insurance costs, shipping operations and regional stability.
India has consistently supported freedom of navigation and adherence to international maritime law. The country’s diplomatic engagement following the latest attack reflects its broader commitment to protecting its nationals while advocating for secure and uninterrupted maritime commerce.
As investigations into the missile strike continue, New Delhi is expected to remain in close contact with regional governments and international partners to monitor the evolving situation and safeguard Indian interests in the Gulf.
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