New Delhi: The Indian government has condemned the attack on the merchant ship Settebello off the coast of Oman, which had 24 Indian sailors on board. According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, 21 people have been rescued while three others are reported missing.
“Our embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and is actively coordinating with the Omani authorities in the ongoing search and rescue operations,” the ministry said in a statement. New Delhi said the attacks on shipping in the region were “deeply concerning” and called them a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs said, “We reiterate our call for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and the conclusion of the ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region.”
The statement added, “The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end and free and unimpeded navigation and trade through international waterways in the region, in accordance with international law, must be restored as soon as possible.”
Editorial note: Bora
