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Indian Crew Injured in Attack on Vessel in Strait of Hormuz

A recent attack on the Panama-flagged vessel MT On Peace in the Strait of Hormuz has left eleven Indian crew members injured. The incident has raised significant concerns regarding maritime security in the region, prompting a strong condemnation from the Indian government. With the assistance of Omani authorities, the injured crew are receiving medical treatment. The Ministry of External Affairs has called for an immediate cessation of such attacks to ensure peace and stability in international waters. This incident adds to the troubling history of violence affecting Indian nationals in West Asia since the conflict began in 2026.
 

Incident Overview

A file image of ships wait offshore in the Strait of Hormuz. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi, Oct 6: On Tuesday, a Panama-flagged commercial ship was hit by a projectile while navigating the Strait of Hormuz near Oman, resulting in injuries to eleven Indian crew members. This incident has drawn a strong condemnation from India.


Details of the Attack

The vessel, named MT On Peace, was carrying 19 crew members, with 17 being Indian nationals. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that 12 crew members sustained injuries, including 11 Indians.


Official Response

In a statement, the MEA expressed its condemnation of the attack on the MT On Peace, which occurred while the ship was in transit through the Strait of Hormuz.


With the help of Omani authorities, the injured crew members were evacuated and are currently receiving medical care in Khasab, Oman. The MEA extended its gratitude to the Omani authorities for their assistance.


Concerns Over Regional Security

The ministry highlighted that ongoing attacks on maritime vessels in the region are a significant concern for India. They reiterated the need for an immediate halt to such assaults to promote peace and stability.


Furthermore, the MEA emphasized that the targeting of commercial shipping, seafarers, and civilian infrastructure must cease, and that navigation and trade through international waters should be restored promptly.


Historical Context

In a previous report from July, the Indian government informed Parliament that since the conflict began in 2026, 16 Indian nationals, including 10 seafarers, had lost their lives in West Asia. Additionally, 75 Indians were reported injured.


Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh provided these figures in response to a question from CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas. The fatalities included eight Indians in Oman, four in the UAE, two in Kuwait, and one each in Saudi Arabia and Iraq.