Two Tankers with Indian Crews Attacked Near Strait of Hormuz
On Thursday, 17 September 2026, two foreign-flagged tankers carrying Indian crew members were attacked near the Strait of Hormuz. According to a Directorate of Maritime Administration report cited by the Hindustan Times and Business Standard on 18 September 2026, here are the key details of the incidents.
* The Panama-flagged crude oil tanker MT Basrah Energy was struck by a projectile in its funnel area while sailing eastbound outside the Strait.
* The vessel, carrying 22 people including 14 Indian nationals, reported no significant damage and safely reached the Fujairah anchorage in the UAE.
* The Togo-flagged oil product tanker Trend was reportedly attacked by a drone near Khasab Port on Oman’s Musandam peninsula, with details regarding potential injuries or damage remaining pending.
Vessels and Crew Inside the Persian Gulf
The Directorate of Maritime Administration noted that six Indian-flagged vessels and eight foreign-flagged vessels of Indian interest remain inside the Persian Gulf, west of the Strait, with a total of 153 Indian seafarers on board. Ten of these ships have been designated for evacuation.
Previous Regional Incidents and Casualties
These events follow a series of maritime incidents since the regional conflict began in early 2026. Earlier in September 2026, the MT El Gaia was attacked off Oman, resulting in the rescue of 14 Indians and the disappearance of Sumit Kumar Singh, an oiler from Vaishali. Other vessels recently impacted include the Riesco, Horizon 1, and Mersin Prosperity. Official tallies from earlier this month indicate that dozens of incidents have resulted in nine Indian seafarer deaths, twelve injuries, and one presumed death.
Ongoing Diplomatic Coordination and Land Impacts
While India continues to coordinate with host governments to monitor the situation, 153 Indian personnel remain stationed west of the choke point. Current reports also highlight Houthi strikes on southern Saudi cities such as Abha, Khamis Mushait, and Taif, affecting Indians employed on land. Government policy remains focused on monitoring and requesting safe navigation for vessels operating in the region.