India condemns attack on commercial vessel off Oman coast

MUSCAT: India has condemned the attack on the commercial vessel MT El Gaia off the coast of Oman, saying the targeting of commercial shipping and civilians in the region is unacceptable.

In a statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said 13 of the 14 Indian crew members onboard the vessel have been rescued, while search and rescue operations are continuing for the missing Indian national.

The Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities in the ongoing search and rescue operation.

India also thanked the Omani authorities for their support in rescuing the Indian nationals.

The Ministry reiterated India's call for the immediate de-escalation of tensions and urged all parties to pursue dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace in the region.

“The targeting of commercial shipping, seafarers, civilians, and civilian infrastructure in the region is unacceptable,” MEA said.

It also called for the restoration at the earliest of free and safe navigation and the flow of commerce through international waterways in the region.