Two vessels transporting a total of 24 Indian seafarers were reportedly struck in separate incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and off the coast of Romania. Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed on Friday that all crew members are safe, with no reported casualties or injuries. The incidents highlight ongoing risks faced by commercial shipping in volatile regions.

On October 16, the crude oil tanker MT ST 3, which had 15 Indian seafarers on board, was hit by a projectile while navigating the Strait of Hormuz. In a separate occurrence on October 14, the chemical tanker YARA J, carrying nine Indian crew members, was struck by a drone at Sulina Anchorage in Romania. The minister expressed relief that all personnel aboard both vessels are unharmed.

Minister Sonowal indicated that the government is closely monitoring both situations and maintaining communication with the ship management companies to ensure the safety and well-being of the crew members involved. The incidents have raised alarms regarding the safety of Indian nationals working in international waters.

Government Response to Attacks on Commercial Vessels

The recent attacks on commercial vessels come amid a series of incidents involving Indian seafarers in the Middle East and the Black Sea region. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) previously condemned attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz on October 11, labelling the recurring events as deeply concerning. The MEA warned that such incidents pose a risk of escalating an already unstable situation.

In one of the earlier incidents, the tanker MT PETRO DOLPHIN, which was carrying 11 Indian seafarers, was reportedly struck by a drone at Sohar Anchorage. While nine crew members were rescued, two remained unaccounted for. Another vessel, MT VALTHERA, flagged under the Marshall Islands, was hit by an unidentified projectile, resulting in a fire on board. Fortunately, all 11 Indian seafarers aboard that vessel were reported safe.

The MEA reiterated that the safety and security of Indian seafarers is a top priority for the government. It called for immediate de-escalation of tensions and a resolution to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran through dialogue and diplomacy. The ministry also emphasised the need to uphold freedom of navigation and ensure the safe movement of maritime commerce in accordance with international law.

Concerns Over Attacks in the Black Sea Region

In addition to the incidents in the Middle East, India has expressed concerns regarding attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea. The MEA condemned further strikes on vessels in that region and called for an immediate halt to violence to promote peace and stability.

Last week, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar indicated that India remains in contact with both Russia and Ukraine regarding proposals for safe shipping in the Black Sea. This communication aims to address concerns raised by both nations regarding grain and energy exports, highlighting India’s commitment to maritime safety and international cooperation.

The government’s proactive stance in addressing these issues underscores its dedication to protecting Indian seafarers and ensuring secure maritime operations. As tensions continue in various regions, the focus remains on diplomacy and dialogue to prevent further incidents affecting commercial shipping.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share