The Indian Ministry of External Affairs confirmed on Sunday that one Indian national remains missing following an attack on the commercial container vessel GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman. The ship, which was carrying 11 Indian crew members, came under assault while transiting through Gulf waters. Ten of the Indian sailors have been successfully rescued, and search operations are currently underway in coordination with Omani authorities to locate the missing crew member. The Indian Embassy in Oman is actively monitoring the situation and providing necessary support to those affected.
The incident has drawn a strong condemnation from the Indian government, which described the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure as deeply worrisome. Officials have called for an immediate de-escalation of regional tensions and emphasized the necessity of restoring free and unimpeded navigation through international waterways in accordance with international law. The vessel reportedly sustained significant engine room damage and caught fire during the incident, forcing the crew to abandon the ship.
This attack occurs amid a period of heightened instability in the region, with reports of ongoing hostilities between the United States and Iran. The Strait of Hormuz, where the vessel was transiting, remains a critical global shipping route for energy and commercial goods. As the situation develops, the safety of maritime personnel and the stability of these vital trade corridors remain a primary concern for the international community and the Indian government.