India Condemns Strait of Hormuz Attacks, Demands End to Violence After Indian Seafarer Killed
India has strongly condemned the recent attacks on two merchant vessels carrying Indian crew members in the Strait of Hormuz, calling them unacceptable acts of violence that threaten the safety of seafarers and disrupt international maritime trade. The government also urged all parties involved in the conflict to immediately halt hostilities and return to dialogue in the interest of regional peace and stability.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued the statement after two UAE-flagged vessels—MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa—came under attack while passing through the strategically important waterway. The incident claimed the life of one Indian crew member and left several others injured.
In a strong diplomatic response, the MEA summoned Iran's Deputy Chief of Mission in New Delhi and lodged an official protest over the attacks. India conveyed its serious concern over the targeting of commercial vessels and stressed that such incidents pose a direct threat to international shipping and the safety of civilian sailors.
According to the ministry, 12 Indian nationals were serving onboard MT Al Bahiyah. One of them was killed in the attack, while another sustained injuries. On MT Mombasa, which had 18 Indian crew members, nine were injured, including two reported to be in critical condition.
The government expressed condolences to the family of the deceased sailor and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. It also confirmed that Indian diplomatic missions in the United Arab Emirates are actively coordinating with local authorities to provide all necessary assistance to the affected crew members.
Reiterating its position, India said attacks on merchant shipping and civilian infrastructure must stop immediately to ensure the uninterrupted movement of commercial vessels through international waterways. The ministry emphasised that freedom of navigation and maritime commerce must be protected in accordance with international law.
India further called for restraint from all sides, urging the parties involved in the escalating West Asia conflict to prioritise diplomacy over military action. The government warned that continued violence in the region could have wider implications for global trade, energy security and regional stability.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, handling a significant share of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Any disruption to shipping through the narrow passage has the potential to affect international energy markets, commercial supply chains and global economic stability, making the safety of vessels navigating the route a matter of international concern.
