One Indian sailor lost his life when a commercial cargo vessel was attacked in the Black Sea as it approached international shipping. India strongly condemned the incident and urged the protection of civilians and international maritime trade.
The attack took place on July 18 when the commercial vessel MV Omorfi was sailing through Russian territorial waters in the Black Sea. The ship had 10 crew members, including three Indian nationals.
The MEA confirmed that one Indian sailor was killed in the attack while the other two Indian crew members escaped unharmed. The identity of the deceased was not made public.
India condemns attack on commercial shipping
The Ministry of External Affairs expressed its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased sailor and reiterated India's complete commitment to preventing terrorist attacks against commercial vessels, and expressed its strong stance on commercial boats.
The government said civilian merchant ships and their crew must never be casualties in armed conflicts. India also called on the parties involved in the regional conflict to make sure shipping routes are safe, and that innocent seafarers in international waters are protected.
Rising risks in the Black Sea
The Black Sea has become increasingly dangerous for commercial shipping because of ongoing military tensions in the region. Merchant vessels are under attack from missile strikes, drone attacks, and naval operations, and shipping companies and maritime organizations worldwide are concerned.
The latest incident underscores the increasing risks for international sailors who work on commercial cargo ships traveling in the shipping lanes and shipping goods in a highly strategic manner.
Safety of Indian Crew
The two remaining Indian crew members aboard the MV Omorfi are safe, they said. Indian officials are monitoring the situation and are in touch with relevant government agencies to lend assistance.
The government also guarantees assistance to the deceased sailor's family and is working to coordinate a response to the incident with international authorities.
Concern Over Maritime Security
The freedom of navigation and commercial maritime trade are essential for global economic stability, India has consistently maintained. It has reignited fears of civilian shipping in conflict zones and the urgent need to secure international sea lanes.
With thousands of Indian seafarers employed on merchant vessels around the world, safety is of course a top priority for the government.
