Tragic Missile Strike in Strait of Hormuz: Indian Crew Member Killed

A missile attack on two UAE tankers in the Strait of Hormuz has led to the death of an Indian crew member and injuries to several others. The UAE Ministry of Defense condemned the attack as a serious violation of international law, emphasizing the need for regional security. As tensions escalate, both the UAE and Iran are on high alert, with military responses being reported. This incident raises significant concerns about maritime safety and geopolitical stability in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 14, 2026, 10:19 IST

Missile Attack on UAE Tankers

Abu Dhabi: In a recent incident, two tankers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were struck by Iranian cruise missiles while navigating through the Strait of Hormuz, specifically within Omani waters. This unfortunate event resulted in the death of one Indian crew member and left eight others injured, as reported by the Emirates News Agency, referencing the Ministry of Defense.

The vessels, identified as Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, were targeted during their passage through the southern section of the Strait of Hormuz.

The attack claimed the life of an Indian crew member aboard the Mombasa and injured eight individuals, four of whom sustained serious injuries. Among the injured were six Indian nationals and two from Ukraine, according to reports from Xinhua.

The Ministry of Defense indicated that the assault caused significant damage to both tankers, leading to fires onboard, which have since been extinguished.

The ministry condemned the missile strike, labeling it a grave breach of international law that jeopardizes regional security and stability. They emphasized the UAE's right to respond decisively to such escalations and assured that all necessary measures would be taken to safeguard its territory, citizens, residents, national interests, and strategic assets.

Furthermore, the ministry urged the public to rely solely on official sources for information and to avoid spreading unverified rumors.

In a related statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs also expressed strong condemnation of the missile attack.

Earlier on Sunday, the UAE Defense Ministry reported that its air defense systems were actively engaging threats from missiles and drones, while Bahrain's Interior Ministry advised residents to stay calm and move to the nearest safe location.

Press TV has reported that the recent Iranian strikes targeted US assets, including a Patriot air defense system, an ammunition depot, and a military radar facility in Kuwait.

In retaliation for US attacks, Iran reportedly targeted a US military communications facility and a radar site in Bahrain, as well as launching a ballistic missile strike against the US airbase at Al Udeid in Qatar.