New Delhi Escalates Diplomatic Response
India on Friday summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks for the second time in the same week after another commercial vessel carrying Indian sailors came under attack near the Omani coast. The latest incident has heightened concerns in New Delhi as it marks the third attack involving Indian crew members in less than a week.
Senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs called in the American diplomat to convey India’s concerns over the growing security risks facing merchant ships operating in the Gulf region.
Third Incident Raises Alarm
The latest attack involved a merchant vessel carrying 20 Indian crew members. Reports identified the ship as MT Jalveer, though authorities have not yet disclosed complete details regarding the nature of the attack.
The incident followed two earlier attacks that had already triggered alarm among Indian maritime authorities.
On June 8, tanker MT Marivex suffered a fire following a suspected strike. All 24 Indian crew members aboard the vessel were reported safe.
Two days later, MT Settebello came under attack in the Gulf of Oman. The vessel was carrying 24 Indian sailors. While 21 crew members were rescued, three Indian seafarers lost their lives in the incident, prompting strong diplomatic protests from New Delhi.
Government Issues Maritime Security Advisory
In response to the escalating situation, the Directorate General of Shipping issued a fresh security advisory for Indian seafarers operating in and around the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman and nearby waters.
The advisory urged shipping companies, vessel operators and crew members to remain on high alert amid increasing threats to commercial shipping routes in the region.
Officials are closely monitoring developments as tensions continue to affect one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors.
Thousands Of Indians Working In Gulf Waters
Government estimates indicate that more than 600 Indian sailors are currently serving aboard 13 India-flagged vessels operating around the Strait of Hormuz.
In addition, nearly 18,000 Indian seafarers are employed on foreign-flagged merchant ships across the wider Gulf region, making India one of the countries most affected by any deterioration in maritime security.
India is home to one of the world’s largest maritime workforces, with approximately 3.2 lakh seafarers serving on vessels across international waters.
Focus On Safety Of Indian Crew
The latest attack has intensified concerns over the safety of Indian sailors working in conflict-prone shipping lanes. With three incidents reported within four days, authorities are increasing diplomatic engagement and monitoring the situation closely to safeguard Indian nationals employed in the global shipping industry.
