Published Jul 12, 2026 | 10:09 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 12, 2026 | 10:09 PM
The MEA also condemned attacks on commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure, and called for them to end.
Synopsis: One Indian crew member is missing and 10 others have been rescued after the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy was attacked off the coast of Oman on Sunday, the Ministry of External Affairs said. The MEA condemned attacks on commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure, and called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and a diplomatic solution to restore safe navigation in the region.
One Indian national is missing after the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy came under attack off the coast of Oman on Sunday, 12 July, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, adding that 10 other Indian crew members on board had been rescued.
“Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and proactively coordinating with the Omani authorities in the ongoing Search and Rescue operation. We thank the Omani authorities for their support,” the Ministry said in a statement.
“The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions, and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region.”
The MEA also condemned attacks on commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure, and called for them to end.
“The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region, in keeping with international law, must be restored at the earliest.”
Earlier on Sunday, Iran said it had fired a warning shot that struck a vessel travelling on an unapproved route, according to Reuters.
The latest incident comes amid a series of fatal attacks involving Indian sailors aboard commercial vessels in the region.
In March, an Indian sailor was killed when the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker Safesea Vishnu was attacked near Basra, Iraq, while the remaining Indian crew members were rescued.
In June, three Indian sailors were killed after a US strike hit the Palau-flagged tanker Settebello off the coast of Oman. India subsequently lodged a diplomatic protest with the United States.
