West Asia Conflict / Oil Tanker Hit in Strait of Hormuz, 21 Indian Seafarers Safe

New Delhi, Oct 22: A Kuwait-flagged oil product tanker, M/T Al Dasma, came under attack in the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday when it was hit by an unidentified projectile during transit.

The vessel, which had 21 Indian crew members onboard, escaped without casualties. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the safety of all crew and assured that authorities are keeping a close watch on developments surrounding the incident.

Taking to X, Sonowal stated: “On Oct 21, Kuwait-flagged oil product tanker M/T AL DASMA, carrying 21 Indian seafarers, was struck by an unknown projectile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. All 21 of our Indian crew members, along with the rest of the crew are completely safe.”

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“We are continuously monitoring the situation and remain in close contact with the ship management company to ensure the ongoing security and wellbeing of our seafarers,” he added.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported the strike occurred 11 nautical miles west of Bukha, Oman.

According to Times Kuwait, the incident sparked a fire aboard the vessel, which was later extinguished. The tanker remained stationary, with all crew members reported safe.

This attack comes amid a series of regional maritime incidents. On October 16, crude oil tanker MT ST 3, carrying 15 Indian seafarers, was also struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz. No casualties were reported.

India has consistently condemned such attacks, reiterating that targeting commercial shipping and merchant mariners is “legally and morally indefensible.”

New Delhi has emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation and the “safe and unimpeded flow of maritime commerce through international waterways” amid escalating conflict in the Middle East.

(IANS)