Two Oil Tankers Attacked in Strait of Hormuz; All 29 Indian Crew Members Safe

New Delhi: Two oil tankers came under attack in the Strait of Hormuz on October 29 and 30, raising fresh concerns over maritime security in the region. All 29 Indian crew members aboard the two vessels have been reported safe, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said.

The Panama-flagged tanker MT LOUIS 1 was attacked with suspected limpet mines on October 30. According to reports, unidentified individuals approached the vessel in a small boat and attached two magnetic explosives to its exterior. The subsequent explosion triggered a fire in the engine room, which was brought under control by the crew. No injuries or oil leakage were reported, and the vessel resumed its voyage after the fire was extinguished.

Another tanker, the Liberia-flagged MT ARZANAH, was reportedly hit by projectiles on October 29. Two Indian nationals were among its crew.

In a post on X, Sonowal said the government was closely monitoring the situation and maintaining regular contact with ship management companies to ensure the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers.

According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the incident involving MT LOUIS 1 occurred around 25 nautical miles (46 km) northeast of Khasab, Oman.

The identity of those responsible for the attacks remains unknown. The repeated incidents in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz have heightened concerns over the safety of international shipping and oil transportation.