New Delhi, June 10: India on Wednesday strongly condemned the attack on a commercial vessel off the coast of Oman, confirming that 21 of the 24 Indian crew members aboard have been rescued, while three remain unaccounted for.

In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, “We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman. Of the 24 Indian crew onboard, 21 have been rescued so far, while three Indians are reportedly missing.”

The ministry stated that the Indian Embassy in Oman is actively coordinating with Omani authorities and closely monitoring the ongoing search and rescue efforts.

“The Embassy is in constant touch with local authorities and is proactively engaged in the ongoing Search and Rescue operation,” the statement added.

Expressing concern over the deteriorating security environment in the region, the MEA noted that repeated attacks on maritime vessels are a matter of serious concern and are linked to the continuing conflict in the area.

“The continuing incidents of attacks on shipping in the region are deeply worrisome and a direct consequence of the ongoing conflict,” the ministry said.

India also reiterated its call for an immediate reduction in tensions and urged all parties to pursue diplomatic solutions to restore peace and stability.

“The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure must cease. Free and unhindered navigation and trade through international waterways, in accordance with international law, should be restored at the earliest,” the MEA emphasized.

Earlier in the day, the Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed that it was monitoring the situation involving the vessel and remained in close contact with Omani authorities.

According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), a fire broke out aboard the tanker about 20 nautical miles (37 kilometres) northeast of Sohar, Oman. The blaze reportedly originated in the engine room and resulted in one casualty, though further details have not yet been disclosed.

The latest incident follows another maritime attack earlier this week involving the Palau-flagged tanker MT Marivex. On Tuesday, India expressed gratitude to the Omani government for its prompt assistance in rescuing all 24 Indian crew members from the vessel after it caught fire following an attack off the Omani coast.

The MEA praised Oman’s support and reiterated the importance of ensuring the safety of seafarers and maintaining secure international shipping routes in the region.