India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has strongly condemned an attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman. The incident, which occurred recently, resulted in the rescue of ten Indian nationals, while one remains missing.
The MEA confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Oman is actively coordinating with local authorities to support ongoing search and rescue operations. "We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman," stated the ministry, emphasizing the collaborative efforts to locate the missing Indian national.
India Voices Concern Over Regional Maritime Security
Expressing deep concern over the escalating security situation, the MEA highlighted that repeated attacks on commercial shipping pose a significant threat to peace and maritime trade in the region. The ministry reiterated India's call for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and urged for diplomatic solutions to restore stability.
“The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome,” the MEA noted, underscoring the necessity for free and unimpeded navigation through international waterways, in strict adherence to international law.
Attack Amidst Heightened Strait of Hormuz Tensions
The attack on the GFS Galaxy comes amidst rapidly escalating tensions in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Iran recently announced the closure of this key waterway, citing an "unauthorised" vessel that reportedly ignored warnings and switched off its tracking systems before being struck. Tehran warned of a "severe response" to any retaliation and stated the Strait would remain closed "until further notice."
In response, the US military launched a third round of strikes on multiple Iranian military targets. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported striking approximately 140 targets, part of over 300 targets hit across three nights, aimed at degrading Iran's capacity to attack commercial shipping. Separately, Iran also claimed to have launched fresh drone strikes targeting US military installations located in Kuwait and Bahrain.