One Indian national was killed after the commercial vessel MV Cape Dao came under attack off the east coast of Oman on Wednesday, September 23, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in an official statement.
According to the MEA, 20 Indian seafarers were on board the vessel. Nineteen have been rescued, while one Indian national tragically lost his life in the attack.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Issue/Event: Commercial vessel MV Cape Dao attacked off the east coast of Oman
Location: Off the coast of Oman
Authority/Organisation: Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India / Embassy of India in Oman
Action Taken: 19 Indian seafarers rescued; Embassy coordinating with Omani authorities for safety and early repatriation
Impact: One Indian national lost his life; India called for an end to attacks on commercial shipping and restoration of safe navigation
The Indian government expressed its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased seafarer.
The MEA said the Embassy of India in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and is proactively coordinating with Omani authorities for the early repatriation of the Indian seafarers. India also thanked the Omani authorities for their support.
The attack has prompted a strong response from New Delhi amid continuing security concerns surrounding commercial shipping in the region.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The incident has directly affected Indian seafarers and adds to wider concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in strategically important international waterways. India's response also highlights the government's position that civilian vessels, seafarers and related infrastructure should not be targeted and that commercial navigation should remain free and unimpeded.
The MEA said the continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping are deeply worrisome. India reiterated its call for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and enable an early return of peace in the region.
India also said that commercial shipping, seafarers and civilian infrastructure in the region must not be targeted and called for free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways in the region to be restored at the earliest.
The Indian Embassy in Oman is coordinating with the relevant authorities regarding the safety and repatriation of the rescued Indian seafarers. Independent reports have also identified the vessel as the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged MV Cape Dao, which was travelling towards India.
