Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Iran on Wednesday attacked a US-owned crude oil tanker, “Safesea Vishnu,” near Iraq’s Basra, killing one Indian national.A video published by Europa Press appears to show the moment the tanker is struck after a sudden impact. The night-time footage shows the vessel set ablaze after it was reportedly hit by underwater drones.Meanwhile, the rest of the 27 crew members were rescued and taken to Basra.
This fatal attack comes as the West Asia crisis enters its 13th day. In response to the deteriorating security situation, oil terminals at Iraqi ports on Thursday suspended operations following a string of strikes on tankers near its waters.
Poll
Do you think Indian seafarers are being adequately protected during rising tensions in West Asia?
Sources close to Safesea told news agency Press Trust of India that the company was “devastated” by the loss and urged the Indian government to strongly condemn the attack and take urgent measures to ensure the safety of crew members in the region amid rising tensions in West Asia.It also noted that Indians make up over 15 per cent of the world’s seafarers, meaning that Indian nationals could become “collateral damage” in similar attacks, regardless of the ship targeted.Meanwhile, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, said on Wednesday that two Indian nationals — one in Israel and another in Dubai — were injured in attacks and are now recuperating. “The welfare of our diaspora is of utmost priority to us,” he said.The ministry also said Indian missions in West Asia were coordinating with the concerned governments to help Indian nationals stranded in the region due to airspace closures.“There is very strong inter-ministerial coordination. Whenever any assistance is required, Indian missions are immediately reaching out to assist people,” the MEA said.Earlier, the shipping minister said that at present 28 Indian-flagged vessels are operating in the Persian Gulf. Of these, 24 vessels are located west of the Strait of Hormuz carrying 677 Indian seafarers, while four vessels are east of the strait with 101 Indian seafarers onboard. The ministry said their safety and security were being actively monitored.A 24-hour control room has been operational at the ministry and the Directorate General of Shipping since February 28, 2026, to monitor developments and coordinate assistance.The ministry said it is maintaining regular interaction with industry stakeholders to provide necessary support to maritime trade and seafarers.
