Indian-crewed tanker attacked off Oman; one crew member missing

A merchant vessel crewed primarily by Indian nationals was attacked off the coast of Oman, prompting immediate rescue operations that have saved 13 crew members, according to statements from India's Ministry of External Affairs. The MT El Gaia, a tanker registered under a foreign flag, was subjected to the assault while transiting the Arabian Sea, a strategically important waterway for global maritime commerce.

Rescue teams responded swiftly to the incident, successfully bringing 13 crew members to safety. However, one crew member remains missing following the attack, raising concerns among maritime authorities and Indian officials monitoring the situation.

The Ministry of External Affairs has issued a formal condemnation of the attack, underscoring India's commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens at sea. The incident comes amid heightened security concerns in the Arabian Sea and surrounding waters, where merchant vessels have faced repeated threats to their safe passage.

Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attack are continuing, with authorities working to determine the identity of those responsible and the fate of the missing crew member. Maritime authorities have urged vessels operating in the region to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to relevant naval forces.