One Indian National Missing After Iranian Attack on Cyprus-Flagged Vessel GFS Galaxy in Strait of Hormuz
New Delhi: An Indian national remains missing following an attack by Iranian forces on the Cyprus-flagged commercial vessel GFS Galaxy in the Strait of Hormuz, off the coast of Oman. The ship reportedly caught fire after the assault, forcing crew members to abandon the vessel in a dramatic evacuation.
According to official confirmation, 10 of the 11 Indian nationals on board have been successfully rescued, while search and rescue operations continue for the one missing crew member. The Indian government has expressed deep concern over the safety of its citizens navigating high-risk international waters.
In a strongly worded official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the incident:
“We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman earlier today. Of the 11 Indian nationals on board, 10 have been rescued so far, while 1 Indian national is reportedly missing.”
The MEA further noted that the Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the developing situation and actively coordinating with Omani authorities to support the ongoing search and rescue efforts. Embassy officials are in touch with the rescued Indian crew members and are providing necessary assistance, including medical support and consular services where required.
The attack on the GFS Galaxy underscores the escalating tensions in one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. The Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and handles nearly a fifth of global oil shipments, has seen increased incidents in recent weeks amid broader geopolitical conflicts involving Iran, the United States, and regional players. Reports link the assault to Iranian retaliatory actions, including missile and drone activities, following US strikes in the region.
This incident marks another serious threat to commercial shipping in the area. Maritime security experts warn that continued instability could disrupt global energy supplies, drive up oil prices, and pose risks to thousands of seafarers, many of whom are Indian nationals. India, with one of the largest merchant navies and a significant diaspora working in the maritime sector, has repeatedly called for de-escalation and protection of innocent civilians and trade routes.
The rescued Indian crew members are being debriefed, and the government is gathering more details about the circumstances of the attack, including the precise timing, nature of the assault, and damage sustained by the vessel. Families of the crew have been informed, and psychological support is being arranged for those affected.
As search operations intensify with Omani maritime agencies, Indian officials continue to urge restraint from all parties involved to prevent further loss of life. The MEA has also advised Indian vessels and nationals operating in the region to exercise utmost caution and adhere to updated maritime security advisories.
The broader implications for India’s energy security and economic interests remain significant, given the country’s heavy reliance on oil imports passing through these waters. Diplomatic efforts are reportedly underway to ensure the safe return of the missing national and to safeguard Indian interests.
This story is developing rapidly. PNI News will provide further updates as more information becomes available from the MEA, Omani authorities, and other official sources.
