New Delhi, Nov 3: India on Tuesday called for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace in West Asia following an attack on a commercial vessel off the coast of Oman that killed an Indian seafarer.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the government was working to ensure the early repatriation of 13 Indian nationals rescued from the Indian-flagged vessel MSV AL JUSUFI. The mortal remains of the deceased seafarer are also being brought back to India.

The deceased was identified as Gandhar Nahim Ajij from Gujarat. The vessel was carrying 14 Indian crew members when it came under attack near Limah, Oman, on Monday evening.

During a bi-weekly media briefing, Jaiswal thanked the Omani authorities for their prompt response and assistance in rescuing the crew members. He said India was coordinating with Oman to complete the repatriation process at the earliest.

Earlier, the MEA strongly condemned the attack and expressed condolences over the loss of the Indian national. It said the Indian Embassy in Oman was closely monitoring the situation and working with local authorities to facilitate the return of the rescued crew members and the deceased's mortal remains.

The ministry also expressed concern over repeated attacks on commercial vessels in the region, stressing that civilian infrastructure and commercial shipping must not be targeted.

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India reiterated its call for an immediate reduction in tensions and urged the parties involved to conclude ongoing negotiations towards a diplomatic solution. It also stressed the need to restore the freedom of navigation and commercial movement through international waters in accordance with international law.

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal had earlier confirmed the death of the Indian seafarer following the attack.

The incident comes amid continuing tensions and repeated attacks on commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf and the wider West Asian region. India has maintained that dialogue and diplomacy remain essential to restoring regional peace and ensuring the safety of maritime routes. (With ANI inputs)