Indian Vessel Sinks After Red Sea Attack
An Indian-flagged commercial vessel sank in the Red Sea after being struck by a projectile off the coast of Yemen. All 13 Indian nationals aboard were rescued safely, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed.
Indian Vessel Sinks in Red Sea
The vessel, identified as MSV Faize Noore Oliya, came under attack near Yemeni waters on August 4. The impact damaged the cargo ship and ultimately caused it to sink.
Reports indicated that the vessel may have been targeted using an explosives-laden boat or another projectile. However, Indian authorities had not officially identified those responsible for the attack at the time of reporting.
The ship carried 14 crew members, comprising 13 Indian nationals and one Yemeni citizen. All members of the crew were rescued and taken to safety.
India Condemns Attack Near Yemen
India strongly condemned the unprovoked attack and called for an end to the targeting of commercial vessels operating in the region.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh is monitoring the situation and coordinating with Yemeni authorities to ensure the rescued crew members’ safety and security. New Delhi also thanked the Yemeni authorities for supporting the rescue operation.
Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed that the vessel had been struck near Yemeni waters and expressed relief that the crew had been rescued.
Red Sea Shipping Faces Renewed Threats
The attack has heightened concerns over the safety of merchant shipping through the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The route connects the Indian Ocean with the Suez Canal and is central to trade between Asia and Europe.
Commercial vessels travelling through the region have faced repeated missile, drone and explosive-boat attacks during the continuing West Asian conflict. Several shipping companies have diverted vessels around Africa, increasing journey times and freight costs.
The latest attack is particularly significant because it involved an Indian-flagged ship and Indian crew members. Further details about the vessel’s cargo and the investigation remain awaited.
