Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 22: A Kuwait-flagged oil tanker carrying 21 Indian seafarers was struck by an unknown projectile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz on October 21, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said on Wednesday.

The vessel, identified as M/T Al Dasma, was targeted while sailing through the strategic waterway. However, all 21 Indian crew members are safe, and no injuries have been reported.

“On October 21, Kuwait-flagged oil product tanker M/T AL DASMA, carrying 21 Indian seafarers, was struck by an unknown projectile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz,” Sonowal said in a post on X.

He said the government was closely monitoring the situation and remained in contact with the ship management company to ensure the safety and well-being of the Indian seafarers.

The incident comes amid growing concerns over attacks on commercial vessels in the region following the outbreak of the conflict between the United States and Iran in February this year. India has repeatedly expressed concern over attacks on vessels and called for the protection of seafarers operating in international waters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier emphasised the importance of maritime security and freedom of navigation while addressing world leaders at the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi in September.

“Global trade progress is possible only when sea lanes are secure, supply routes remain open, and seafarers are safe. That is why India is a staunch supporter of freedom of navigation and the safety of seafarers,” Modi had said.

The latest incident has renewed concerns over the safety of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global maritime route for oil and other petroleum products.