Two foreign-flagged vessels carrying Indian crew members came under attack near the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, September 17, as maritime security risks continue to affect commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf.
One of the vessels, the Panama-flagged crude oil tanker MT Basrah Energy, was reportedly struck by a projectile near its funnel while sailing eastward outside the Strait of Hormuz. The vessel suffered no significant damage and all crew members were reported safe.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Issue/Event: Two foreign-flagged vessels with Indian crew reported attacked
Location: Strait of Hormuz / Gulf of Oman region
Authority/Organisation: Directorate General of Maritime Administration and Indian maritime authorities
Action Taken: Vessel monitoring and evacuation planning for vessels of Indian interest
Impact: 153 Indian seafarers remain aboard vessels in the Persian Gulf region
The tanker later reached Fujairah anchorage with 22 crew members on board, including 14 Indian nationals.
A second vessel, the Togo-flagged oil product tanker Trend, was reportedly attacked by a drone near Khasab Port in Oman. Further details about the incident and the extent of any damage were not immediately available.
The incidents have renewed attention on the safety of Indian seafarers operating in one of the world's most strategically important maritime regions. According to the latest maritime information, six Indian-flagged vessels and eight foreign-flagged vessels of Indian interest are currently in the Persian Gulf, west of the Strait of Hormuz, carrying a combined 153 Indian seafarers.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The incidents directly involve Indian seafarers and highlight the growing risks faced by commercial shipping in the Gulf. Any prolonged disruption around the Strait of Hormuz could also affect global energy and maritime trade.
Ten vessels of Indian interest in the area have reportedly been identified for evacuation as authorities continue monitoring the security situation.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical international shipping corridor, particularly for global oil and gas supplies. Reduced vessel traffic and continuing attacks have increased pressure on shipping operators to assess alternative routes and arrangements. Recent shipping data also shows traffic through the Strait remaining significantly below its normal level.
India has previously maintained enhanced monitoring of Indian seafarers and vessels operating in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and adjoining waters. The Directorate General of Shipping has advised heightened vigilance and established mechanisms for real-time monitoring and incident reporting.
