In a statement issued today (3 November), the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said: “We condemn the attack on a commercial vessel MSV AL JUSUFI, near Limah, Oman yesterday evening. Of the 14 Indian nationals on board, 13 have been rescued while 1 Indian national tragically lost his life after sustaining injuries. We convey our deepest condolences on the precious life lost.
“Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the Omani authorities for the early repatriation of the rescued Indian nationals and the mortal remains of the deceased.
In a post on X, Indian seafarers’ union FSUI said: “Another Indian seafarer killed. MSV AL JUSUFI struck by an unidentified aerial object off Oman on 2 Nov. One of our brothers, Gandhar Nahim Ajij from Gujarat, lost his life. 13 others rescued by the Omani Coast Guard.
“How many more? Hormuz, Black Sea, Red Sea — seafarers continue to die while governments and international bodies issue advisories that cannot stop drones, missiles and projectiles. Advisories are not protection. Seafarers are civilians, not combatants. The world has failed them.
“We demand: Immediate, enforceable protection measures. Accountability for attacks on commercial shipping. Full support, compensation and justice for families. How many more must die before real action is taken?”