At least 3 Indians killed in Iran strikes off Oman, confirms shipping authority

Three Indian seafarers serving aboard foreign-flagged vessels have been killed and one injured amid escalating hostilities in West Asia, the Directorate General of Shipping said on Tuesday. The incidents occurred as tensions surged across the Persian Gulf region following intensified military exchanges involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

According to the shipping authority, four separate maritime security incidents were reported in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman and adjoining sea areas involving Indian nationals. At least one Indian sailor was killed after an explosives-laden unmanned boat struck an oil tanker off the coast of Oman, while two others lost their lives in a separate attack on another vessel operating near Omani waters. One additional Indian crew member was reported injured.

The Directorate General of Shipping said it is closely monitoring the evolving maritime security situation, where threats have included missile and drone activity, electronic interference and other security risks. It clarified that there have been no confirmed instances of casualty, detention or boarding involving Indian-flagged vessels so far, and monitoring efforts remain ongoing.

To address the crisis, a quick response team has been constituted to coordinate evacuation, provide immediate assistance and support Indian seafarers stranded in and around the Persian Gulf region. The team will work in coordination with Indian missions abroad, shipping companies, port authorities and other stakeholders to ensure timely communication and safe evacuation where required.

Tensions in the region have escalated sharply after airstrikes targeted multiple Iranian cities, followed by retaliatory missile and drone launches across West Asia, including attacks on US assets and regional allies. The widening conflict has significantly heightened risks for civilian maritime traffic and expatriates working in regional waters.