An Indian seafarer is missing after the Panama-flagged oil tanker MT El Gaia was attacked off the coast of Oman on Sunday, September 13, 2026.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the vessel had 14 Indian crew members on board. Thirteen have been safely rescued, while search and rescue operations are continuing for the one missing national.
In an official statement, the MEA said:“We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel MT El Gaia off the coast of Oman earlier today. Of the 14 Indian crew onboard, 13 Indians have been rescued so far. Search and rescue operations for the missing Indian national are continuing.”
The Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities. The embassy confirmed that the 13 rescued crew members have been shifted ashore safely. India has thanked Oman for its support in the rescue efforts.
According to reports, the missing seafarer has been identified as Sumit Kumar Singh from Muzaffarpur, Bihar. His family has appealed for urgent assistance.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that the vessel was struck by an unidentified munition while transiting the Strait of Hormuz area, leading to a fire on board and the crew’s evacuation.
India reiterated its call for immediate de-escalation of tensions in the region and the pursuit of dialogue and diplomacy. The MEA stated that the targeting of commercial shipping, seafarers, civilians, and civilian infrastructure is unacceptable, and urged the restoration of free and safe navigation through international waterways.
This incident adds to growing concerns over the safety of Indian seafarers in West Asian waters, where Indian nationals form a significant portion of global maritime crew.
