External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with his Omani counterpart, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi, on Thursday to discuss the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Following the call, Jaishankar posted on X: “Spoke with FM Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi of Oman on the ongoing conflict in West Asia.”

Earlier, on March 3, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman, condemning the violation of Oman’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. PM Modi highlighted the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement for restoring regional peace and stability and appreciated Oman’s support for the Indian diaspora.

The diplomatic outreach comes in the wake of a recent attack on the oil tanker MKD Vyom in the Gulf of Oman. The tanker, flagged under the Republic of the Marshall Islands and carrying 59,463 metric tonnes of cargo, was struck by an unmanned surface vessel (USV) about 52 nautical miles off Omani shores. The attack caused a fire and explosion in the main engine room, killing one Indian crew member. The remaining 21 crew members—including 16 Indians—were safely evacuated via the Panamanian commercial vessel MV SAND, while the Royal Navy of Oman continues to monitor the tanker and issue navigational warnings.

Also Read: PM Modi Discusses Indian Community Safety In Oman, Kuwait Amid Middle East Tensions

The tanker attack is part of escalating tensions following joint US-Israel strikes on Iran on February 28, which targeted Tehran’s missile capabilities and military infrastructure. The operation resulted in the deaths of senior Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompting retaliatory drone and missile attacks across the region.

India is actively coordinating with Oman to ensure the safety and repatriation of its nationals, highlighting the role of diplomacy amid the volatile West Asian situation.

Also Read: Urgent Advisory Issued For Indian Seafarers Following Iran Conflict, Missile Strikes