India on Tuesday lodged a strong diplomatic protest with Iran after an Indian sailor was killed and six other Indian nationals were injured in an alleged Iranian missile attack on two oil tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned Iran’s senior-most diplomat in New Delhi, Deputy Chief of Mission Mohammad Javad Hosseini, following the incident, which has further escalated tensions in the strategically vital maritime corridor.
Indian sailor killed, six nationals injured
According to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Defence Ministry, the Emirati oil tankers Mombasa and Al Bahiyah were struck by two Iranian cruise missiles while sailing through the southern shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz within Omani territorial waters.
The attack resulted in the death of one Indian crew member and injuries to eight seafarers, including six Indian nationals and two Ukrainian nationals. Officials said four of the injured sustained serious injuries.
The missile strike also triggered fires aboard both vessels, which were later brought under control.
India lodges formal protest
Following the attack, the Ministry of External Affairs summoned Mohammad Javad Hosseini to convey India’s strong protest over the incident.
The diplomatic meeting was conducted publicly, with television crews covering the Iranian diplomat’s arrival at the ministry. Officials said the move reflected India’s growing concern over repeated attacks involving merchant ships carrying Indian crew members.
Rising concerns over attacks on merchant vessels
The latest strike came just two days after another alleged Iranian attack on the Cyprus-flagged container ship GFS Galaxy, during which an Indian crew member went missing while ten other Indian seafarers were rescued.
According to official figures, 14 Indian nationals have lost their lives in West Asia since the conflict involving Israel, the United States and Iran escalated earlier this year.
UAE condemns missile strike
The UAE condemned the attack, describing it as a serious violation of international law that threatens regional security and maritime stability.
In an official statement, the UAE Defence Ministry said the country reserves the right to take all necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty, citizens, residents and national interests.
Authorities also said the UAE remains on the highest level of operational readiness to respond to any threats.
India reiterates call for de-escalation
India has repeatedly expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in West Asia and the continued attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its appeal for the immediate de-escalation of tensions and urged all parties to pursue dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and stability in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, and continued hostilities have disrupted the movement of oil, gas and fertiliser supplies, raising concerns over global trade and energy security.
