Indian Sailor Killed in Strike Near Oman Coast
A 25-year-old Indian sailor died after an aerial strike on the MSV Al Jusufi near Oman, bringing the regional death toll of Indians to 23.
A 25-year-old Indian sailor was killed in an aerial strike near the Oman coast on November 2, marking a tragic moment in the ongoing regional maritime tensions. The victim, identified as Gandhar Nahim Ajij from Porbandar, Gujarat, was aboard the Indian-flagged cargo vessel MSV Al Jusufi when the attack occurred.
Tragedy Aboard the MSV Al Jusufi
The MSV Al Jusufi was transporting 950 metric tonnes of dates from Hamriyah port in the UAE to India. While the vessel was navigating near Limah, shortly after crossing the Strait of Hormuz, an unidentified projectile struck the port side of the ship near the cabin. The incident took place at approximately 4 pm local time.
At the time of the strike, Ajij was positioned at the steering wheel. He sustained severe injuries to his shoulder and his left leg. In a poignant final moment, he remained conscious and was able to speak with his colleagues as they moved toward land. However, he passed away while being transferred to an ambulance upon reaching the shore. He is survived by his mother and elder brother.
Rescue Operations and Official Response
The Omani Coast Guard successfully rescued 13 other Indian crew members from the water following the strike. Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the fatality via social media, noting that his ministry is working closely with the Indian Embassy in Oman to assist the survivors and ensure the repatriation of Ajij's body.
Rising Death Toll in the Region
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed grave concern over the increasing danger to Indian nationals. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal announced that this tragedy brings the total death toll of Indian nationals in the regional conflict since February to 23. Key details regarding the fatalities include:
- 15 of the victims have been seafarers.
- Three deaths occurred in Saudi Arabia.
- The conflict has previously impacted Indian citizens at airports in Riyadh and Dammam, as well as at various oil field installations.
The MEA condemned the strike as part of a series of "deeply concerning" attacks against commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure. India has officially called for an immediate de-escalation of hostilities and the restoration of free navigation under international law.
Concerns for Gujarati-Owned Vessels
The Indian Sailing Vessels Association has requested comprehensive consular support for the victim's family. The association highlighted that this marks the fourth attack on a Gujarati-owned vessel in the region since the escalation of hostilities began.