Two tankers carrying Indian crew members were attacked on October 11 off the coast of Oman and in the Strait of Hormuz. The incidents were reported on social media platform X by India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal.
According to the minister, the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker M/T Valthera was hit by an unidentified projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday. A fire broke out on board, but all 11 crew members, who are Indian citizens, were unharmed.
Sonowal said the Indian side is monitoring developments and remains in contact with the vessel’s management company to help ensure the sailors’ safety.
On the same day, tanker MT Petro Dolphin also came under a drone attack while anchored off Sohar, Oman. That vessel also had 11 Indian sailors on board.
Nine crew members were rescued, while two are still missing, the minister said. Search and rescue operations are continuing with the involvement of the local coast guard, and Indian authorities are coordinating with the relevant agencies.
