New Delhi, July 14: India on Tuesday strongly condemned the attacks on two commercial vessels transiting through the Strait of Hormuz after one Indian seafarer was killed and 10 others were injured, calling the incidents a serious threat to the safety of civilian shipping and freedom of navigation through one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the attacks targeted MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa while they were passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The two vessels had a combined crew of 46, including 30 Indian nationals. Of the 12 Indians aboard MT Al Bahiyah, one died and another sustained injuries. On MT Mombasa, 18 Indians were among the crew, with nine injured, including two reported to be in serious condition.
India described the attacks as unacceptable acts of violence against seafarers and commercial shipping and reiterated its concern over the renewed escalation of hostilities in West Asia. The government called for an immediate cessation of violence and urged all sides to return to dialogue and diplomacy in the interest of regional peace, security and stability.
Following the attacks, the MEA summoned the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Iran in New Delhi and lodged a strong protest over the incidents. The ministry said India had conveyed its concerns regarding the attacks and their impact on civilian maritime operations.
The MEA expressed condolences to the family of the deceased Indian national and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. It said the Indian Mission and Post in the United Arab Emirates are closely monitoring the situation and remain in contact with the UAE authorities to facilitate all possible assistance to the affected Indian seafarers.
The ministry also stressed that attacks targeting commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure in the region must stop immediately to ensure the restoration of free, safe and unimpeded navigation through international waterways in accordance with international law.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes for global trade and energy supplies. Any disruption to shipping through the corridor has significant implications for international commerce and the safety of merchant vessels operating in the region.
India reiterated that ensuring the security of international sea lanes is essential for maintaining global trade and protecting civilian maritime traffic. The government said it remains deeply concerned over the deteriorating security situation in West Asia and will continue monitoring developments while extending necessary support to the affected Indian nationals.
