Five Indian nationals rescued, shifted ashore after projectile hits tanker in Hormuz: Embassy in Oman
Five Indian nationals were safely rescued and moved ashore after the Kuwaiti-flagged tanker MT Kazimah III was struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz.
Five Indian nationals have been successfully rescued and moved to safety following a projectile strike on a commercial tanker in the volatile Strait of Hormuz.
Five Indians Rescued After Tanker Hit in Hormuz
The Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed that the rescue operation involved five Indian crew members stationed aboard the MT Kazimah III, a Kuwait-flagged crude oil tanker. The vessel was reportedly struck by a projectile while navigating the critical maritime corridor.
Successful Rescue Operation
In a statement released via social media on Friday, the Embassy detailed its coordination with local officials to ensure the safety of the crew. The tanker, which was en route to the port of Lomé in Togo, faced the sudden impact in the high-risk region of the Strait of Hormuz.
“All 5 Indian nationals have been shifted ashore safely. We thank the Omani authorities for their continued support and assistance,” the Embassy stated, expressing gratitude for the swift intervention by Omani officials during the crisis.
High Stakes for Indian Seafarers
This incident highlights the growing dangers faced by maritime workers in global shipping lanes. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the presence of Indian nationals in the Persian Gulf is significant:
- 163 Indian seafarers are currently on board 12 active cargo ships in the area.
- Over 4,500 Indian seafarers are operating on various other commercial vessels across the region.
- The fleet includes six India-flagged vessels and six foreign-flagged vessels carrying cargo to India.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that the Ministry of Shipping is working closely with diplomatic missions to monitor vessel movements and ensure the welfare of all seafaring community members.
Rising Maritime Security Concerns
The attack comes at a time of heightened tension in several global maritime corridors, including the Red Sea and the Black Sea. The security of commercial shipping has become a focal point of international diplomacy.
During the 81st United Nations General Assembly, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar voiced strong condemnation regarding attacks on civilian crews. He noted that the loss of lives among seafarers is "completely unacceptable" and urged for immediate de-escalation in the Gulf region.
India has recently joined an international coalition, alongside Liberia and 23 other partner nations, to defend commercial shipping routes and mobilize global opinion to protect these vital trade arteries and ensure the safety of those working at sea.