India has strongly condemned the attack on the Indian-flagged commercial vessel MSV Faize Noore Oliya, which sank in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen after being struck by a projectile. All 14 crew members on board, including 13 Indian nationals, were rescued safely, averting a major humanitarian tragedy.
According to official reports, the vessel was transporting oil from Saudi Arabia when it came under attack in waters near Yemen. The impact caused the mechanised sailing vessel to capsize and eventually sink. The rescued crew members were brought to safety with the assistance of local authorities.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal strongly denounced the attack, describing it as an assault on an unarmed civilian vessel. He said the MSV Faize Noore Oliya was hit by a projectile near Yemeni waters, leading to its sinking. Reiterating the government’s commitment to the welfare of Indian seafarers, the minister said, “India strongly condemns this unprovoked attack on the defenceless mechanised sailing vessel. The safety of our people is our supreme priority.”
In a statement, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the attack on the Indian-flagged vessel, saying the continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. It said the targeting of commercial shipping in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region must be restored at the earliest.
The Ministry further said that the Indian Embassy in Riyadh is closely monitoring the situation and is proactively coordinating with the Yemeni authorities to ensure the safety and security of the rescued crew members.
The incident once again highlights the persistent security challenges facing commercial shipping in the Red Sea, one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes. Repeated attacks on merchant vessels in the region have disrupted global shipping, increased insurance costs and raised concerns over the safety of international maritime commerce.
India has consistently advocated for the protection of civilian shipping and the preservation of freedom of navigation through international waters. The latest attack is expected to reinforce calls for stronger international cooperation to safeguard vital sea lanes and ensure the security of merchant vessels operating in the region.
(Inputs from AIR)
