Indian Killed After Ship Catches Fire, Sinks Near Hormuz

DUBAI –An Indian lost his life while four others sustained burn injuries after a wooden dhow carrying 18 Indian crew members caught fire and capsized near the Strait of Hormuz, official sources confirmed on May 9.

The incident occurred on May 8 in the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz region, where tensions linked to the ongoing Iran-US conflict have heightened security concerns and raised risks for commercial shipping.

According to sources, the wooden dhow was transporting general cargo when the fire broke out. Authorities are still trying to determine the exact cause of the blaze that led to the vessel capsizing.

The source added that officials from the Consulate General of India in Dubai met the rescued Indian nationals on the night of May 8 and were coordinating with the dhow owner while extending all possible support and assistance to the crew members and their families.

The latest maritime incident comes amid worsening instability in the Middle East and growing risks to commercial shipping routes in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy transit corridor.

The hostilities have also contributed to disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, increasing risks for commercial vessels operating in the area. Similar incidents involving attacks or threats to Indian crew members have also been reported in the past. (IANS)