Seafarer killed in attack on Indian-flagged cargo vessel off Oman coast

India on Tuesday condemned an attack on the commercial vessel MSV AL JUSUFI near Limah, Oman, in which one Indian national died after sustaining injuries. Thirteen other Indians on board were rescued. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the attack took place on Monday evening and conveyed its condolences over the death. India’s Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities for the early repatriation of the rescued nationals and the mortal remains of the deceased, the ministry said.
Describing continuing attacks on commercial shipping in the region as “deeply concerning”, the MEA called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations towards a diplomatic solution. The Ministry said attacks on commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure must end to allow peace and stability to return to the region. The MEA also called for the earliest restoration of free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways in the region, in accordance with international law. Union shipping minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the death of seafarer Gandhar Nahim Ajij of Gujarat and said Al Jusufi was “struck by an unidentified aerial object”

IMPORTANT UPDATE On Nov 2, the Indian MSV AL JUSUFI, carrying 14 Indian seafarers, was struck by an unidentified aerial object while navigating near the coast of Oman. While 13 crew members safely evacuated and were rescued by the Omani Coast Guard, I am deeply saddened to report that one of our seafarers, Gandhar Nahim Ajij from Gujarat, tragically succumbed to his injuries. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this hour of immense grief. The Ministry and Indian Embassy in Oman are in contact with local authorities to ensure immediate assistance for the 13 survivors and facilitate the swift repatriation of both the surviving crew and mortal remains of our deceased seafarer.

— Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) November 3, 2026

A report prepared by the directorate of Maritime Administration said all 14 crew members abandoned the vessel in a liferaft after it was struck by the projectile. Ajij was being taken to a hospital at Khasab Port in Oman when he died. The deceased was a resident of Salaya, Devbhumi Dwarka in Gujarat, it added.  The report also said the vessel had departed from Hamriyah Port in UAE on October 31 at 10.11am for Porbandar in Gujarat.