Key facts
- India is monitoring a maritime security incident involving the vessel MT Jalveer off Oman's Shinas port.
- All 20 Indian seafarers aboard MT Jalveer were safely evacuated.
- The incident follows a US strike on the tanker MT Settebello, which killed three Indian seafarers.
- India has lodged a strong protest with the US over the MT Settebello strike.
- India's Ministry of External Affairs described continuing attacks on shipping in West Asia as 'deeply worrisome'.
India's Ministry of External Affairs has expressed deep concern over continuing attacks on shipping in West Asia, labeling them "deeply worrisome" and a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the region. The ministry called for an end to these attacks and urged for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and stability.
These comments came as the evacuation of Indian crew members from the vessel MT Jalveer commenced following a maritime security incident near Oman's Shinas port on June 11. The tanker has 20 Indian seafarers on board, all of whom are reported to be safe with no casualties or injuries.
The latest incident follows closely on the heels of a US military strike on the tanker MT Settebello off the Omani coast, which resulted in the deaths of three Indian nationals. India had previously condemned this attack and summoned the US deputy chief of mission to register a strong protest.
Maritime security firms have noted that the incidents occur amid heightened tensions and increased US enforcement measures against vessels suspected of transporting Iranian oil, particularly in the critical shipping routes of the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz.