World · India Bureau
Oil tanker with 27 Indian crew attacked in Hormuz Strait
The MT Louise 1, carrying Indian seafarers, was struck by limpet mines in the Hormuz Strait in what officials say was the first such attack in the waterway. All crew members have been accounted for and are safe despite an engine room fire.
LSN India ·
An oil tanker carrying 27 Indian crew members came under attack in the Hormuz Strait on Tuesday, marking the first reported use of limpet mines in the strategic waterway. The MT Louise 1 sustained damage when magnetic mines were detonated against the vessel's hull, triggering a fire in the engine room compartment.
Shipping Ministry officials confirmed that all Indian seafarers aboard the tanker remained safe following the incident. The crew was able to contain the blaze and bring the situation under control. The attack has heightened concerns about maritime security in one of the world's most critical oil transit routes.
Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the details of the attack to the media. The incident underscores ongoing tensions in the Persian Gulf region and raises questions about vessel safety in contested waters. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack and the identity of those responsible.
The Hormuz Strait, which lies between Iran and Oman, is one of the world's most important maritime chokepoints, with millions of barrels of oil passing through daily. The incident adds to a series of security challenges facing commercial shipping in the region in recent months.