Suspected attack on Saudi Arabian oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz

Amid rising tensions in West Asia, there is a suspicion of a potential attack on the Saudi Arabian-flagged oil tanker ‘NCC FAJR’ while it was passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbanand Sonowal shared information regarding the incident via social media.

Sonowal stated that the incident occurred on 11 November while the oil tanker was passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Three Indian sailors were also on board the vessel. The Minister assured that all crew members on board the ship, including the three Indians, are safe.

However, no details have emerged yet regarding who carried out this attack, what type of weapons were used, or how much damage was caused to the vessel. The Minister stated that the Government of India is constantly monitoring the entire situation.

The government is maintaining regular contact with the company operating the vessel to ensure the safety of the Indian sailors and other crew members. Sonowal clarified that the safety and well-being of the sailors is a priority for the government and the situation will be monitored by coordinating with the relevant company as required.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important maritime routes, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman. This route holds immense importance for global crude oil and energy trade as a large volume of the world's oil reserves passes through this route. Since India also relies on this route for crude oil imports, incidents regarding vessel movement and the safety of sailors here become significant for India.

A day before this incident, i.e., on 10 November, another oil tanker named MT FUJAIRAH ENERGY, flying the Liberian flag, was attacked by a projectile in the Persian Gulf. That vessel was travelling from Al Ruwais towards Dubai and had a total of 24 crew members on board, including six Indian sailors. In that attack, four crew members, including one Indian sailor, sustained minor injuries and were taken ashore for medical examination, while the remaining 18 members were safe.