An Indian crew member lost his life when the US-owned crude oil tanker Safesea Vishnu was attacked by Iran near Basra in Iraq. The attack occurred in the Persian Gulf, where another oil tanker was also hit in Iraq’s territorial waters. Iran claimed responsibility for the assault, citing an underwater drone strike on the vessels.
The Indian Embassy in Baghdad confirmed the death of the crew member and the safe evacuation of the remaining 15 Indian crew members to a secure location. The vessels targeted in the attack were the Maltese-flagged tanker Zefyros and the US-owned Safesea Vishnu.
Following the incident, the Indian Embassy in Baghdad maintained communication with Iraqi authorities and the rescued Indian sailors. The embassy expressed condolences to the deceased crew member’s family and assured continuous monitoring of the situation for the safety of the evacuated crew members.
Amid escalating tensions in the region and threats to maritime traffic, Iran had previously warned of actions in the critical maritime corridor of the Strait of Hormuz. Despite security concerns, some shipping traffic has continued through the strait, with the US taking action to counter potential threats.
The US-Israeli military campaign against Iran has entered its 12th day, impacting maritime trade and causing global oil price increases. The conflict has disrupted maritime traffic in the region, raising fears of supply disruptions and ongoing tensions.
