One Indian Missing, 10 Rescued After Attack on Vessel Off Oman Coast Amid US-Iran Tensions

July 12, 2026

New Delhi: One Indian crew member is missing while 10 others have been rescued after a commercial vessel carrying Indian nationals came under attack off the coast of Oman amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. India has strongly condemned the attack and expressed concern over the safety of seafarers in the region.

The vessel involved in the incident was the Cyprus-flagged container ship GFS Galaxy, which was attacked while travelling through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. According to officials, 10 out of 11 Indian nationals onboard have been rescued, while one Indian crew member remains missing.

Iran’s IRGC Accused of Attacking Vessel

According to reports, the attack was carried out by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The US Central Command said the vessel was targeted while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in major damage to the ship’s engine room and an onboard fire.

The attack forced the vessel to stop its journey as the crew faced a dangerous situation following the damage and fire. Rescue operations were launched, leading to the evacuation of most crew members.

Why Was the Ship Attacked?

The IRGC reportedly claimed that the vessel was targeted because it allegedly violated maritime instructions while passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has accused some commercial vessels of ignoring warnings and following routes it considers unauthorised.

However, the United States described the incident as an attack on a commercial ship, and the escalation has become part of the wider conflict between Washington and Tehran. The attack came amid heightened military tensions and exchanges between the two countries.

India Calls Attack ‘Deeply Worrisome’

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the attack, calling repeated incidents targeting commercial vessels in the region a serious concern.

India said it is closely monitoring the situation and working to ensure the safety of its citizens involved in the incident.

Strait of Hormuz Under Global Watch

The incident has raised fresh concerns over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping routes connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.

The waterway is crucial for global energy supplies, and any disruption in the region can impact international shipping and fuel markets.