An Indian seafarer has died after the India-flagged cargo vessel Al Jusufi was struck by an unidentified aerial object while sailing near the coast of Oman, highlighting the continuing dangers facing commercial shipping in Gulf waters.

The multi-purpose support vessel was carrying 14 Indian crew members when the incident occurred on 2 November. According to Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the ship came under attack while navigating off the Omani coast.

Thirteen crew members were able to evacuate safely and were subsequently rescued by the Omani Coast Guard. However, one sailor, identified as Gandhar Nahim Ajij of Gujarat, sustained fatal injuries in the attack.

Confirming the incident, Sonowal said: "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."

The minister added: "My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this hour of immense grief."

Indian authorities have moved quickly to assist those affected. The Ministry of Shipping and the Indian Embassy in Oman are working closely with local officials to provide immediate support to the surviving crew members and to arrange the repatriation of both the survivors and the mortal remains of the deceased sailor.

Officials have not yet determined who was responsible for the attack, and details surrounding the type of weapon or ammunition used remain unclear.

The incident comes against the backdrop of continued instability across the Middle East and a series of attacks targeting merchant vessels transiting strategic Gulf shipping routes. Security concerns in the region have intensified following escalating hostilities between the United States and Iran, increasing risks for commercial shipping operations.

The latest strike underlines the vulnerability of vessels operating near critical maritime corridors, including the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy transit routes. Disruptions and attacks in the region have raised concerns over maritime safety and the wider impact on global trade and energy supplies.

India has repeatedly expressed concern over the safety of its nationals working at sea. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, at least 22 Indian nationals have been killed in attacks involving shipping vessels and tankers in Gulf waters.

"We are deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict in West Asia. We have lost 22 Indian nationals in the conflict, including 14 seafarers," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a media briefing last month.

The attack on Al Jusufi adds to growing concerns over maritime security in the Gulf and renews calls for stronger international cooperation to safeguard seafarers and commercial shipping operating in the region.

Agencies