India has condemned attacks on commercial vessels and seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz region after a drone strike on a tanker left two Indian crew members missing. The government warned that repeated attacks on commercial shipping could further aggravate an already volatile regional security situation.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the Nicaragua-flagged tanker MT Petro Dolphin, carrying 11 Indian seafarers, was reportedly struck by a drone on Sunday in the Strait of Hormuz region.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about the safety of Indian maritime workers operating along critical international shipping routes.
Two Indian Seafarers Missing After Tanker Attack
The Forward Seamenโs Union of India (FSUI) identified the two missing crew members from MT Petro Dolphin as Bir Bahadur Yadav and Amit Singh.
According to the union, the tanker was hit in a drone attack at Sohar Anchorage in Oman. Efforts are being coordinated to locate the missing seafarers and establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Indian Embassy in Muscat is monitoring the situation and working with Omani authorities and ship management companies to support rescue efforts and provide assistance to Indian crew members.
Second Commercial Vessel Also Hit
In a separate incident on Sunday, the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker MT Valthera was struck by an unidentified projectile, causing a fire onboard.
According to the MEA, all 11 Indian seafarers aboard MT Valthera were reported to be safe.
The two incidents underline the risks faced by commercial vessels operating in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important maritime corridor for international energy shipments and global trade.
India Calls for an End to Attacks on Shipping
India condemned the attacks and stressed that commercial vessels and their crews must not be targeted.
The government warned that recurring incidents involving merchant ships and seafarers risk worsening regional instability. The safety of civilian maritime personnel remains a key concern, particularly when vessels are operating in areas affected by heightened geopolitical tensions.
India has also emphasised the importance of protecting its nationals working in the international shipping industry.
Embassy Coordinates Rescue and Assistance Efforts
The Indian Embassy in Muscat is coordinating with local authorities and the companies managing the vessels to help locate the missing crew members and provide assistance to affected Indian seafarers.
The immediate priority remains establishing the whereabouts of Bir Bahadur Yadav and Amit Singh, while authorities continue assessing the incidents involving both tankers.
The developments highlight the wider implications of maritime insecurity for Indian seafarers, international shipping companies and global supply chains. Further information from authorities is expected to clarify the circumstances of the attacks and the status of the missing crew members.
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