Strait Of Hormuz
ISLAMABAD: An Indian-flagged cargo vessel came under attack off the coast of Oman on May 13, resulting in the ship sinking while all 14 Indian crew members were safely rescued by Omani authorities.
The vessel, identified as MSV Haji Ali, was struck by an unidentified explosive object, suspected to be a drone or missile, near Limah on Oman’s northern coast around 3:30 am local time. It was en route from Berbera in Somalia to Sharjah carrying livestock.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs strongly condemned the incident. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the attack as “unacceptable” and deplored the continued targeting of commercial shipping and civilian mariners.
Omani authorities promptly assisted in the evacuation. All crew members boarded lifeboats and were rescued without any casualties reported.
The ship was a general cargo vessel owned by a company based in Gujarat’s Devbhoomi Dwarka district. It operated under the Indian flag with a crew entirely of Indian nationals.
**Official Response** The MEA thanked Omani authorities for their swift rescue operation. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.
Indian officials are monitoring the situation closely. They have urged heightened caution for vessels transiting the region.
The incident occurred in waters near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade handling around 20-30 percent of the world’s seaborne petroleum.
**Background Context** The Gulf of Oman and Strait of Hormuz have witnessed multiple maritime incidents in 2026 amid heightened regional tensions involving Iran, the US, and broader Middle East conflicts.
Earlier in April 2026, two Indian-flagged vessels carrying crude oil came under attack while attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz. India summoned the Iranian envoy to convey deep concern.
In March incidents, oil tankers with Indian crew members were also targeted, including cases with injuries and at least one fatality reported in separate attacks.
**Key Details** The Haji Ali was a relatively small general cargo ship engaged in regional trade, including livestock transport. Such dhow-style operations are common between South Asia, East Africa, and the Gulf.
India maintains significant stakes in the region. Over 20 Indian-flagged vessels operate in the broader Strait of Hormuz area, many critical for energy security. India imports nearly 85 percent of its crude oil requirements, with a substantial portion passing through these routes.
**Reactions And Impact** The attack has raised fresh concerns over maritime security. Shipping companies and flag states are reviewing risk assessments for voyages in the Gulf of Oman.
Oman, which maintains neutrality and plays a key mediation role in regional disputes, has launched an investigation into the incident.
No immediate disruption to major oil tanker traffic has been reported, but insurance premiums for vessels in the area may see further adjustments.
**Strategic Implications** The repeated targeting of commercial vessels, including those with Indian links, underscores the vulnerability of key international shipping lanes. Pakistan, which also depends heavily on Gulf energy imports, shares interest in stability of these routes.
Achieving safe passage requires sustained diplomatic efforts and possible enhanced naval coordination among regional and international stakeholders.
India continues to deploy naval assets for protection of its merchant fleet when required. The country has advised all Indian vessels to exercise extreme caution and maintain close communication with naval authorities.
Further details on the exact cause and perpetrators are expected as investigations progress. Oman’s Maritime Security Centre and international maritime organisations are coordinating information sharing.
The outcome of this incident may influence future routing decisions by shipping lines and add urgency to diplomatic initiatives aimed at de-escalating tensions in the Gulf region.
Upcoming weeks will see closer monitoring of maritime activity near the Strait of Hormuz as global trade seeks to navigate persistent security challenges.