An Indian cargo vessel was sunk off the northern coast of Oman after it was hit by what authorities suspect was a drone or missile-like explosive, prompting a strong condemnation from the Union government.
The Gujarat-based cargo ship Haji Ali was sailing near Lima in Oman in the early hours when it was struck by an unidentified explosive device. The impact triggered a fire on board, and the vessel later lost control and sank in waters off Oman.
Officials said 14 Indian personnel, including a sailor, were rescued safely by Omani authorities. Ship owner Sultan Ahmed stated that all those rescued are safe.
The attackers have not been identified so far. India’s Ministry of External Affairs said the incident is unacceptable and condemned the continued targeting of commercial ships and civilian seafarers, amid rising maritime security concerns in the region as tensions linked to the Iran–US standoff in the Strait of Hormuz intensify.
Separately, Indian officials said two LPG tankers bound for India successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz. The Marshall Islands-flagged Simi, carrying 19,965 tonnes of LPG, crossed on May 13 and is expected to reach Kandla soon, while Vietnam-flagged NV Shine, carrying 46,427 tonnes, is expected to arrive at New Mangalore on May 18; the cargo on both vessels belongs to Indian Oil Corporation.
