India Condemns Sinking of Cargo Vessel in Strait of Hormuz Crisis

India has strongly condemned the sinking of an Indian-flagged wooden cargo vessel, the Haji Ali, in Omani waters as unacceptable amidst the ongoing Strait of Hormuz crisis. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday while the ship was transporting livestock from Somalia to the United Arab Emirates, is believed to have been caused by a drone or missile strike, according to maritime security sources and risk management groups. The attack triggered a fire that led to the vessel's sinking. Fortunately, all 14 crew members were successfully rescued by the Omani coast guard and transported to Diba port. This marks the second Indian vessel lost in the region since the conflict involving Iran began on February 28, a war that has stranded hundreds of ships and disrupted navigation for thousands of seafarers. The Indian Foreign Ministry reiterated its stance against targeting commercial shipping and endangering civilian mariners. The condemnation comes as BRICS foreign ministers, including representatives from Iran, gather in New Delhi, highlighting the diplomatic challenges posed by the escalating regional conflict and its impact on vital energy transit routes.