'Targeting civilian infra must end': MEA after Indian killed in attack on ship in Oman

MEA called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations to reach a diplomatic solution

NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs (MEA) on Tuesday condemned the attack on a commercial vessel off Oman’s coast that left one Indian national dead and 13 others rescued.

The vessel, MSV Al Jusufi, came under attack near Limah on Monday evening.In a statement, the MEA said the Indian national died after sustaining injuries in the attack. It conveyed its condolences to the family of the deceased and said the Indian Embassy in Oman was closely monitoring the situation.

The embassy is coordinating with Omani authorities to facilitate the early repatriation of the 13 rescued Indian nationals as well as the mortal remains of the deceased, the ministry said.Expressing concern over repeated attacks on commercial shipping in the region, the MEA called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations to reach a diplomatic solution."The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end," the statement said, adding that free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways must be restored in accordance with international law.

The ministry reiterated that peace and stability in the region could return only through diplomatic efforts and an end to attacks on commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure.The deceased seafarer has been identified as Gandhar Nahim Ajij from Gujarat, who succumbed to his injuries while the remaining 13 crew members were safely evacuated and rescued by the Omani Coast Guard.Sharing details of the incident in a post on X, Sonowal said the vessel, MSV AL JUSUFI, was hit by the unidentified aerial object on November 2.