One Indian national remains missing after a commercial vessel came under attack off the coast of Oman, India's Ministry of External Affairs confirmed on Sunday, as tensions continue to rise across the Gulf amid the ongoing regional conflict.
According to the ministry, 11 Indian nationals were on board the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy when the incident occurred. Ten crew members have been safely rescued, while one Indian citizen is still unaccounted for following the attack.
"Of the 11 Indian nationals on board, 10 have been rescued so far, while one Indian national is reportedly missing," the ministry said in an official statement, strongly condemning the attack on the vessel.
The Indian Embassy in Oman is closely coordinating with Omani authorities to support the ongoing search and rescue operation. Officials said diplomatic teams are monitoring developments and providing all necessary assistance to the affected crew members and their families.
The incident comes amid escalating military tensions in the Gulf region, where commercial shipping has increasingly become vulnerable following the intensifying conflict between Iran and the United States. Security concerns have grown around key maritime routes, particularly near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil transit corridors.
Earlier on Sunday, Iranian authorities said they had fired a warning shot that struck a vessel travelling on what they described as an "unapproved route." Tehran did not immediately provide additional details about the ship or explain the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The attack follows a series of recent confrontations involving commercial vessels operating near the Gulf, raising fresh concerns over maritime security and the safety of international shipping. Regional governments have increased monitoring of shipping lanes as military activity continues to intensify.
Omani authorities have not released further information regarding the missing crew member or the exact cause of the attack. Search teams remain engaged in rescue efforts, while maritime agencies continue to assess the situation.
The latest incident underscores the growing risks facing commercial shipping in the Gulf as geopolitical tensions continue to escalate. International observers have urged restraint and called for the protection of civilian vessels operating in the region, warning that further attacks could have significant implications for global trade, energy supplies and regional stability.
