The MT On Peace, sailing under Panama’s flag, was hit by a projectile as it cut through the busy Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint through which 20% of the world’s oil transits.
Thirteen crew members were aboard, 17 Indians among them; twelve sustained injuries, eleven of whom were Indian nationals, the ministry said.
Omani authorities promptly responded, evacuating the wounded to Khasab, where medical teams are now treating them. The incident adds to a string of recent attacks on commercial shipping in the area, raising concerns about maritime security.
In response, the Ministry of External Affairs has filed a formal protest with the Omani government and will raise the matter at the next UN Security Council meeting, urging an end to such assaults.
A 32‑year‑old sailor from Gujarat, who had been on the vessel for six months, described the moment the shell hit as a sudden shock that rattled the ship’s hull.