The Indian government has issued a strong condemnation following an attack on the commercial cargo ship GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman on Sunday. The vessel, which had 11 Indian nationals among its crew, was struck during a period of heightened regional instability. While 10 of the Indian crew members have been successfully rescued, one remains missing, prompting an urgent search and rescue operation coordinated by the Indian Embassy in Oman and local authorities.
This incident occurred as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate, marked by recent military exchanges between the United States and Iran. The attack on the GFS Galaxy is part of a broader pattern of hostilities affecting commercial shipping lanes in the region. The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi described the ongoing threats to civilian infrastructure and merchant vessels as deeply worrisome, emphasizing the need for immediate de-escalation.
India has consistently advocated for the protection of international waterways and the restoration of free, unimpeded navigation in accordance with international law. The government reiterated its call for a diplomatic solution to the current standoff, urging all parties to prioritize stability and the safety of civilian mariners. As the search for the missing crew member continues, the incident highlights the significant risks faced by Indian seafarers working in volatile maritime zones.