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Two merchant vessels attacked in Strait of Hormuz; 22 Indian sailors affected

Two commercial ships carrying Indian crew members came under attack in the Strait of Hormuz on October 11, prompting India to condemn the incidents. Two Indian seafarers are reported missing following a drone strike on one vessel, while all crew aboard the second ship are accounted for.

LSN India · 12 October 2026

Two merchant vessels attacked in Strait of Hormuz; 22 Indian sailors affected

India's Ministry of External Affairs has strongly condemned attacks on two merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz region, which left 22 Indian seafarers affected. MT Petro Dolphin, carrying 11 Indian crew members, was struck by a drone on Sunday, with two of the Indian sailors reported missing. The second vessel, MT Valthera, a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker also with 11 Indian seafarers aboard, was hit by an unidentified projectile that sparked a fire onboard. All crew members on MT Valthera have been confirmed safe. The incidents mark renewed concerns over maritime security in one of the world's most critical shipping routes. India's Embassy in Muscat is actively monitoring the situation and coordinating with Oman's authorities and the respective ship management companies to ensure the safety of all Indian nationals involved. The Ministry emphasized that the security and welfare of Indian seafarers remain a top priority for New Delhi as it works to assist the affected crew and locate the missing sailors.