India on Tuesday called for immediate de-escalation and an end to ongoing negotiations to achieve a diplomatic solution in the Middle East. This request came after the death of an Indian sailor in an attack on a commercial ship off the coast of Oman.
Statement from the Ministry of External Affairs of India
In a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs of India, the country condemned the attack on the Indian-flagged commercial ship MSV AL JUSUFI near Limah, Oman. The incident, which occurred on Monday evening, resulted in the death of one Indian citizen and the rescue of 13 others.
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The Ministry of External Affairs of India announced that the country's embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and is working with Omani authorities to facilitate the swift return of the rescued sailors and the bodies of the victims.
Concerns Over Repeated Attacks on Commercial Ships
The statement read: "We condemn the attack on the commercial ship MSV AL JUSUFI. Of the 14 Indian nationals on board, 13 were rescued, and unfortunately, one lost their life. We express our deepest condolences for the loss of this precious life."
The Ministry of External Affairs of India also expressed concern over the repeated attacks on commercial ships in the region and reiterated the call for immediate de-escalation and a diplomatic solution. The ministry stated: "Attacks on commercial ships and civilian infrastructure must cease, and free access to navigation and trade through international waters must be restored as soon as possible."
This statement followed the confirmation of the death of an Indian sailor by Sarbandana Sonowal, the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. Sonowal stated that the ship was attacked by an unidentified aerial object on November 2. The deceased sailor has been identified as Gandar Nahim Ajij from the state of Gujarat.
In this context, Sonowal expressed regret and said: "I am deeply saddened that one of our sailors, Gandar Nahim Ajij, has lost his life. This ministry and the Indian embassy in Oman are in contact with local authorities to assist the survivors and facilitate their swift return and the return of the victims' bodies."
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