Two Indian seafarers go missing after attacks on ships near Strait of Hormuz, MEA condemns

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), MT Petro Dolphin was possibly hit by a drone, leaving two of the 11 Indian seafarers on board missing.

In a separate incident, MT Valthera was struck by an unidentified projectile, triggering a fire on board.

However, all 11 Indian crew members aboard the vessel remained safe, the MEA said.

The ministry said the Indian Embassy in Muscat was closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities and the respective ship management companies to facilitate the rescue of the missing seafarers and provide all possible assistance to the Indian crew.

The MEA reiterated that the safety and security of Indian seafarers remained a priority for the Government of India.

“The recurring attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply concerning and risk further aggravating an already volatile situation,” the statement said.

India also reiterated the need for immediate de-escalation and a resolution to the ongoing conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.

“Attacks on commercial vessels, seafarers and civilian infrastructure must cease. Freedom of navigation and the safe, unimpeded flow of maritime commerce through international waterways, in accordance with international law, must be upheld,” the statement added.

The incidents occurred amid a series of attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf region, as tensions in the Middle East remain high.