India Expresses Deep Concern, Protests Iran After Indian Seafarer Killed In Hormuz Incident

India on Tuesday strongly condemned the attacks on two commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz that left one Indian seafarer dead and 10 others injured, describing the incidents as “acts of violence” that threaten the safety of international maritime navigation. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also lodged a strong protest with Iran over the attacks, expressing deep concern over the loss of life and injuries suffered by Indian crew members. In a strongly worded statement, the MEA said it was “deeply concerned” by the attacks on the merchant vessels MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa, which together carried 30 Indian nationals among their combined crew of 46.

The ministry said the incidents underscored the growing risks faced by civilian seafarers operating in one of the world’s busiest shipping routes. According to the MEA, MT Al Bahiyah had 12 Indian crew members on board. One Indian national was killed in the attack, while another sustained injuries. The ministry expressed condolences to the deceased seafarer’s family and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. On MT Mombasa, which had 18 Indian crew members, nine Indians were injured, including two who suffered serious injuries. The government said it was closely monitoring the condition of the injured and was extending all possible assistance through diplomatic channels.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased Indian national and wish speedy recovery to those injured,” the MEA said in its statement. Following the attacks, the Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi to register India’s strong protest. During the meeting, Indian officials conveyed their concerns over the attacks and stressed the need to ensure the safety and security of commercial shipping and international seafarers operating in the Strait of Hormuz.

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The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important maritime chokepoints, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. A significant portion of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas exports passes through the narrow waterway, making any disruption a matter of international concern. India has consistently advocated for the safety of maritime trade routes, given its dependence on energy imports and the large number of Indian nationals employed in the global shipping industry. Thousands of Indian seafarers serve aboard merchant vessels operating across international waters, including in the Gulf region.

The latest attacks have renewed concerns over maritime security amid heightened tensions in West Asia. Any escalation in the region has the potential to affect global shipping, energy supplies and international trade, prompting calls for restraint and the protection of civilian vessels. The Indian government has not disclosed further details about the circumstances surrounding the attacks but said it would continue engaging with the concerned authorities to safeguard Indian nationals and ensure accountability. The MEA reiterated that attacks on commercial ships and civilian crew members are unacceptable and called for adherence to international law to guarantee freedom and security of navigation in international waters.

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