India Condemns Drone Attacks on Merchant Vessels in Strait of Hormuz
Drone Strikes on Indian Crewed Ships
Screengrab image shows black smoke billowing from a merchant vessel following an alleged drone strike(Photo: @InsightsofWave/X)
New Delhi, Oct 12: Two merchant ships, carrying a total of 22 Indian crew members, were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting a strong response from India.
The first vessel, MT Petro Dolphin, was reportedly hit by a drone on Sunday, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
"We strongly condemn the assaults on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz on October 11. MT PETRO DOLPHIN was allegedly targeted by a drone, with two of the 11 Indian crew members reported missing," the MEA noted.
"MT VALTHERA, a tanker registered under the Marshall Islands, was impacted by an unidentified projectile, causing a fire onboard. Fortunately, all 11 Indian crew members aboard MT VALTHERA are reported safe," it added.
The MEA mentioned that the Indian Embassy in Muscat is actively monitoring the situation and is in coordination with Omani authorities and the respective ship management companies to facilitate the rescue of the missing crew members and provide necessary assistance.
"The safety and security of Indian seafarers is a top priority for the Government of India. The ongoing attacks on commercial shipping in the region are alarming and could exacerbate an already tense situation," the MEA stated.
India emphasized the urgent need for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.
"Attacks on commercial vessels, seafarers, and civilian infrastructure must stop. The freedom of navigation and the safe, uninterrupted flow of maritime trade through international waters, in line with international law, must be maintained," the MEA concluded.