India Condemns Attack on Vessel Off the Coast of Oman

The Indian government on Wednesday condemned an attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman, which was carrying 24 Indian crew members. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, 21 of them have been rescued, while three others are reported missing. Our embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and is proactively coordinating with Omani authorities in the ongoing search and rescue operation, the ministry said in a statement. New Delhi stated that attacks on shipping in the region are deeply concerning and described them as a direct consequence of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. We reiterate our call for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and a negotiated settlement underway to achieve a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can be restored in the region, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said. The ministry also stated that the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must cease, and the freedom and smooth flow of navigation and trade through international waterways in the region, consistent with international law, must be restored as soon as possible.