New Delhi: India has formally protested to Iran after an Indian crew member was killed and several others were injured in missile strikes targeting two United Arab Emirates linked oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The Ministry of External Affairs summoned Iran’s deputy chief of mission in New Delhi following the attack, marking a sharp diplomatic response as tensions continue to escalate across West Asia.
The two tankers, Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, were sailing through the southern passage of the Strait of Hormuz when they came under attack. The strategic waterway handles nearly one fifth of the world’s oil shipments during normal conditions, making any disruption a major concern for global energy markets.
The strike claimed the life of an Indian seafarer aboard the Mombasa. Eight other crew members were injured, including six Indian nationals and two Ukrainian nationals. Four of the injured suffered serious wounds and are receiving medical treatment.
The attack also caused significant damage to both vessels after fires broke out onboard. Emergency teams managed to bring the fires under control, preventing further destruction.
The United Arab Emirates condemned the strikes, describing them as a serious violation of international law that threatens regional peace and stability. The country stated that it reserves the right to take all necessary measures to safeguard its territory, citizens, and residents, while maintaining a high level of military readiness.
The incident comes amid rapidly escalating tensions in the region. Earlier, the United States announced renewed measures targeting Iran, including the reinstatement of a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran later responded with attacks aimed at multiple regional targets, including Bahrain, Jordan, and the two UAE linked tankers.
The continuing conflict in West Asia has taken a heavy toll on Indian nationals working at sea. With the latest casualty, 11 Indians have lost their lives in the ongoing hostilities, while several others have been rescued from vessels caught in attacks across the region.
