MEA condemns attack on vessel off Oman coast after Indian national dies
The Ministry of External Affairs called for an end to attacks on civilian infrastructure following the death of a Gujarat seafarer.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday condemned an attack on the commercial vessel MSV Al Jusufi near Limah, Oman. According to the Times of India, the incident occurred on Monday evening and resulted in the death of one Indian national, while 13 others were rescued.
The deceased seafarer has been identified as Gandhar Nahim Ajij from Gujarat. The Omani Coast Guard safely evacuated the 13 rescued crew members after the vessel was hit by an unidentified aerial object on November 2, according to a post on X by Sonowal.
The MEA stated that the Indian Embassy in Oman is monitoring the situation and working with Omani authorities. This coordination aims to facilitate the early repatriation of the rescued nationals and the mortal remains of the deceased.
Expressing concern over repeated attacks on commercial shipping in the region, the ministry said that the targeting of civilian infrastructure and commercial vessels must stop. The ministry also called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and a diplomatic solution to restore peace.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar previously raised concerns about attacks on civilian shipping and seafarers at the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting. Jaishankar stated that the Global South is disproportionately affected by such hostilities, which threaten the cost and availability of food, fuel, and fertilisers.