The Indian government has summoned Iran’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Mohammad Javad Hosseini, to lodge a formal protest following the death of an Indian seafarer in the Strait of Hormuz. The incident occurred on July 14, 2026, when two United Arab Emirates-flagged oil tankers, the MT Mombasa and MT Al Bahiyah, were struck by cruise missiles while transiting the strategic waterway. The attack resulted in the death of one Indian crew member and left several others injured, including six Indian nationals.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep concern over the escalation of hostilities in the region. During the meeting with the Iranian diplomat, Indian officials condemned the violence, emphasizing the necessity of protecting seafarers and ensuring the safety of international maritime trade. The government called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged both sides to return to diplomatic dialogue to restore stability in West Asia.
This event highlights the growing risks to merchant shipping in one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes. The Strait of Hormuz has become a focal point of military tension, with various international powers staking claims over the control of the passage. India, which relies heavily on the region for energy imports and has a significant number of citizens working in the maritime sector, is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of its nationals aboard commercial vessels.
Looking ahead, the incident underscores the fragility of maritime security in the Gulf. As tensions between regional and international actors persist, the safety of civilian crews remains a primary concern for New Delhi. The government continues to coordinate with relevant authorities to provide assistance to the affected sailors and their families while advocating for unimpeded navigation through international waters.