India has summoned the United States Deputy Chief of Mission in New Delhi following an attack on a commercial vessel off the coast of Oman that left three Indian sailors missing, amid growing concerns over maritime security in the Middle East.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called in the senior US diplomat after the incident, which marked the second attack on a merchant vessel in the region within three days. The government conveyed its concerns over the safety of Indian nationals and sought details regarding the circumstances surrounding the attack.
According to officials, the vessel was operating in international waters near Oman when it came under attack. Several crew members were rescued following the incident, but three Indian nationals remain unaccounted for. Search and rescue operations are continuing with support from regional authorities and international agencies.
The MEA said India is closely monitoring the situation and remains in contact with the ship’s operators and concerned authorities. Efforts are underway to trace the missing sailors and provide assistance to affected crew members and their families.
The latest incident has heightened concerns over the security of commercial shipping routes in the region, a vital corridor for global trade and energy supplies. Maritime experts have warned that repeated attacks on merchant vessels could disrupt shipping operations and increase risks for seafarers navigating through the area.
The attack comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, where recent military confrontations have increased uncertainty across key maritime routes. Security agencies in several countries have stepped up monitoring of shipping movements amid fears of further incidents.
India, one of the world’s largest providers of seafarers to the global shipping industry, has consistently emphasised the need to ensure the safety of civilian vessels and crew members operating in conflict-prone waters. Officials said the government is committed to safeguarding Indian citizens working overseas and will continue diplomatic engagement on the issue.
As rescue efforts continue, authorities are focusing on locating the missing sailors and establishing the circumstances behind the attack. Further updates are expected as investigations progress and search teams continue operations in the area.
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