An India-flagged merchant vessel came under attack in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen, prompting an emergency rescue operation that safely evacuated all 13 Indian crew members on board. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the sailors were rescued without any loss of life and are receiving necessary assistance.
The incident has once again highlighted the growing security risks faced by commercial shipping in the Red Sea, where merchant vessels continue to be threatened by attacks linked to regional conflicts.
Projectile Strike Forces Crew to Abandon Vessel
According to preliminary reports, the India-flagged cargo vessel was struck by a projectile while sailing through international waters near Yemen. The impact caused significant damage to the ship, forcing the crew to send distress signals before abandoning the vessel.
Rescue operations were launched immediately with assistance from nearby commercial ships and maritime authorities operating in the region.
All Indian Sailors Safe
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that all 13 Indian nationals on board were rescued safely. They underwent preliminary medical examinations after being brought to safety, and officials reported that no major injuries were sustained.
Indian diplomatic missions are coordinating with local authorities, the shipping company, and international maritime agencies to facilitate further assistance for the rescued crew.
Government Condemns the Attack
The Government of India strongly condemned the attack on the merchant vessel and reiterated its commitment to protecting Indian seafarers working across global shipping routes.
Officials stressed that attacks on civilian commercial vessels threaten international maritime security and freedom of navigation, calling for greater international cooperation to ensure safe passage through critical sea lanes.
Red Sea Security Concerns Continue
The Red Sea remains one of the world’s busiest shipping corridors, connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East through the Suez Canal.
In recent months, escalating regional tensions have led to repeated attacks on merchant vessels, prompting shipping companies to adopt enhanced security measures and, in some cases, reroute ships through longer alternative routes.
Industry experts warn that continued instability in the region could disrupt global trade and increase transportation costs.
Support for Indian Seafarers
The Ministry of Shipping and the Ministry of External Affairs stated that the welfare of Indian seafarers remains a top priority. Officials assured that the government will continue working with international partners to ensure the safety of Indian crews operating in conflict-prone maritime regions.
Looking Ahead
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack while reviewing additional measures to strengthen the safety of Indian-flagged vessels operating in high-risk waters.
The government also reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting international efforts aimed at protecting commercial shipping and maintaining secure global maritime trade routes.
Source: Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, and official maritime security updates.
Original Report: An India-flagged merchant vessel was attacked in the Red Sea near Yemen. All 13 Indian sailors aboard were rescued safely following an emergency maritime rescue operation.
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