New Delhi, June 10: The fate of 3 Indian seafarers is unknown as they have gone missing after their ship came under attack today near the coast of Oman, in the second such incident in less than a week.
According to the Indian Embassy in Oman, a commercial vessel — Settebello — came under attack off the coast of Oman earlier today.
It had 24 Indian crew on board, it said in a statement.
“Of the 24 Indian crew onboard, 21 Indians have been rescued thus far and 03 Indians are reportedly missing,” the statement added.
It condemned the attack but gave no details regarding the attacker.
“Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and proactively coordinating with the Omani authorities in the ongoing Search and Rescue operation,” the Embassy said.
This is the second time in less than a week that a vessel carrying Indians has been hit near the Oman coast.
In the earlier incident, however, all the 24 Indian crew on board the targeted vessel were safe and rescued.
“The continuing incidents of attacks on shipping in the region are deeply worrisome and a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the region,” said the Indian Embassy statement which was retweeted by the Spokesperson of the External Affairs Ministry.
“We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions, and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region.
“The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region in keeping with international law must be restored at the earliest,” the statement said.
The attack came as fighting flared up again today between the US and Iran. (NVI)
