India condemns attack on commercial vessel, seeks de-escalation

New Delhi

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India yesterday condemned the attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman, confirming that 10 of the 11 Indian nationals on board had been rescued while one Indian remained missing.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the Indian Embassy in Oman was closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities involved in the ongoing search and rescue operation.

“We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman, earlier today,” the ministry said.

It added that efforts were continuing to locate the missing Indian national and thanked the Omani authorities for their support in the rescue operation.

The MEA also expressed concern over the escalating attacks on commercial shipping in the region, describing the incidents as “deeply worrisome”.

India reiterated its call for the immediate de-escalation of tensions and urged all parties to conclude ongoing negotiations through diplomacy.

“We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions, and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region,” the statement said.

The ministry stressed that attacks on commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure must cease and called for the restoration of free and unhindered navigation through international waterways in accordance with international law.

“The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region, in keeping with international law, must be restored at the earliest,” the MEA said.