Indian Cargo Ship Haji Ali Sinks After Suspected Attack in Gulf of Oman

The Indian cargo vessel MSV Haji Ali sank in the Gulf of Oman following a suspected attack, raising significant concerns about maritime security in the region. The Gujarat-registered ship was transporting approximately 4,000 sheep and goats from Berbera Port in Somaliland to Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. On May 13, the vessel came under attack, reportedly involving a drone strike that caused a fire, leading to its capsizing and sinking. All 14 Indian crew members on board successfully evacuated via lifeboats after sending distress signals and were rescued by the Oman Coast Guard without injury. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs condemned the incident as an unacceptable attack on civilian shipping. No group has claimed responsibility yet. This event marks the second recent incident involving ships registered in Salaya, Gujarat, heightening fears among maritime traders. Experts attribute the rising danger to escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly between Iran and the US, in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters, which serve as critical routes for global oil and cargo transport.