A cargo vessel from India's Gujarat state sank off the coast of Oman early Wednesday following a suspected drone strike, but all 14 Indian crew members were rescued safely, officials confirmed. The incident occurred as Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was in New Delhi for the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Summit.
Attack Details
The ship, identified as Haji Ali, was registered at Salaya Port in Devbhoomi Dwarka district, Gujarat. It was en route from Somalia to Sharjah, carrying livestock, when it came under attack near Limah off Oman's northern coast. According to reports, the vessel was struck around 3:30 a.m. by an unidentified explosive object, believed to be a drone or missile. The impact ignited a fire onboard, causing the ship to lose stability before it eventually sank.
Rescue Operation
All 14 Indian crew members were rescued safely. Indian authorities coordinated with Omani officials to ensure the crew's safety. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack, calling it "unacceptable" and expressing deep concern over the continued threats to commercial shipping in the region.
Geopolitical Context
The attack took place as New Delhi hosted the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Summit, with Iran's top diplomat in attendance. The timing has raised questions about regional security and the safety of maritime routes in the Gulf of Oman, a critical waterway for global trade. Iran has been involved in tensions with Western powers over the Strait of Hormuz, and this incident adds to the volatile situation.
India has called for a thorough investigation into the attack and urged all parties to ensure the safety of commercial vessels. The incident underscores the growing risks to shipping in the region amid ongoing conflicts and geopolitical rivalries.
