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An Indian crew member was killed after an explosives-laden unmanned boat struck an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman on Monday, marking the first reported Indian fatality linked to the ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, officials said.
According to sources, the attack occurred in waters off Muscat, the capital of Oman. Authorities said the vessel was hit by a bomb-carrying drone boat, triggering an explosion on board and resulting in the death of the Indian national.
The oil tanker targeted in the incident was identified as MKD VYOM, which was sailing under the Marshall Islands flag. Reports suggest that officials have not yet disclosed details about the full extent of the damage to the vessel or whether any other crew members sustained injuries.
In a related development, the Embassy of India in Oman confirmed that it is closely coordinating with Omani authorities after the incident involving another vessel, MV Skylight. Search operations are currently underway for missing crew members from that ship.
In a statement shared on social media, the Indian mission said it remains in constant contact with local authorities overseeing rescue and recovery efforts. The embassy added that it is also working to facilitate the repatriation of rescued crew members and assured that all possible assistance would be extended to those affected.
The attack comes amid heightened security concerns in the Gulf region, a vital maritime corridor for global oil shipments. Authorities in Oman have not yet publicly attributed responsibility for the strike.
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