Muscat: Two more Indian nationals have been confirmed dead following an Iranian attack on a tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports.
The incident occurred on March 1, when the tanker, sailing between Iran and Oman, was targeted using a drone packed with explosives. Three Indian crew members were reported killed in the attack, while two others—including captain Ashish Kumar—were initially listed as missing.
Authorities have now announced that the two missing Indians, including Ashish Kumar, have also died, raising the total number of Indian fatalities in the incident to five.
The report said Iran has been carrying out attacks in the Gulf region as retaliation against the US and Israel, and has also shut the Strait of Hormuz—an important route for global oil trade—warning that vessels passing through could be attacked.
Amid heightened tensions in West Asia, the Indian government has advised Indians to remain cautious and said helpline numbers have been issued for assistance.
