One Indian Missing, 10 Rescued After Commercial Vessel Attacked Off Oman

NEW DELHI- India on July 12 condemned the attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy carrying Indian nationals off the coast of Oman, terming the continuing attacks on commercial shipping in the region “deeply worrisome.”

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said 10 Indian nationals on board the vessel were rescued, while one person is reportedly missing. The Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities in the ongoing search and rescue operation, the ministry said, thanking them for their support.

“The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions, and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region,” the MEA said in a statement.

“The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region, in keeping with international law, must be restored at the earliest,” it added.

In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Oman said it was closely monitoring the incident involving the GFS Galaxy. Embassy officials are in close contact with Omani authorities, the vessel’s management and other stakeholders and are extending all possible assistance, it said.

Earlier in the day, the US Central Command said the GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-flagged container ship, was attacked by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, leaving a crew member missing. (IANS)