Indian Embassy in UAE condoles seafarer's death, monitors Hormuz situation

The Indian Embassy in the UAE has confirmed the death of an Indian seafarer following missile attacks on two vessels, Al Bahiyah and Mombasa B, in the Strait of Hormuz.

The embassy said the Indian national was killed in the attacks and that it is coordinating with local authorities to provide assistance to the injured and the families of those affected.

“We condole the tragic loss of an Indian seafarer in the attacks on two vessels, Al Bahiyah and Mombasa B. We are closely monitoring the situation and are in touch with the local authorities to render all possible assistance to the injured and families,” the embassy said.

30 Indian nationals among crew on vessels

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the two vessels were carrying 30 Indian nationals among a combined crew of 46.

Of the 12 Indian crew members onboard MT Al Bahiyah, one died and another was injured. On MT Mombasa, nine of the 18 Indian nationals sustained injuries, including two who are reported to be seriously hurt.

India coordinates with UAE authorities

India’s mission and post in the UAE are monitoring the situation and coordinating with UAE authorities to provide assistance to the affected seafarers.

Iran envoy summoned

The MEA said the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Iran in New Delhi was summoned and a strong protest was lodged over the attacks.

India condemned violence targeting seafarers and disruption of navigation through international waterways, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue and diplomacy in the region.

Two tankers targeted by Iranian missiles

The UAE Ministry of Defence said the two national tankers were targeted by Iranian cruise missiles while transiting the southern shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz, within Omani territorial waters.

The attack killed one crew member aboard the Mombasa B, an Indian national, and injured eight others, including four who suffered serious injuries, the ministry said.

The injured include six Indian nationals and two Ukrainian nationals, according to the ministry.

Fires brought under control after missile strikes

The missile attacks caused material damage to both tankers after fires broke out on board. The fires have since been brought under control, the Ministry of Defence said.

The ministry strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a serious violation and a breach of international law that threatens regional security and stability.

It said the UAE reserves the right to respond to the escalation and take all necessary measures to protect its territory, people, residents, sovereignty, security and national interests.

The ministry added that the UAE remains prepared to deal with any threats and will respond firmly to attempts to undermine the country’s security and stability.

Authorities also urged the public to rely only on official sources for information and avoid sharing rumours or unverified reports.