Twenty-two Indian crew members safe after drone strikes oil tanker off Sharjah

All 22 Indian crew members on board the oil tanker MT GEM NO. 2 are safe after a drone struck the vessel at Sharjah Anchorage in the United Arab Emirates on October 9. Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed their safety on social media and stated that the government is closely watching the situation.

Official Response

The Union Shipping Minister said officials are in touch with the company that manages the ship to ensure the ongoing security and well-being of all seafarers. The vessel is a crude oil tanker that carries a Panama flag. The minister did not share any details regarding who carried out the drone strike or the extent of damage to the ship itself.

Global Diplomatic Efforts

This incident follows recent moves by India to push for stronger global cooperation to protect merchant ships and commercial crews. The Ministry of External Affairs recently helped launch a new international group focused on the safety and security of shipping and seafarers. This initiative, co-led by India and Liberia, held its first meeting in New York with 25 nations taking part to condemn attacks on commercial vessels in the Gulf region and the Black Sea.

Context

Attacks on commercial ships in key Middle Eastern waters and the Gulf region pose serious risks to global trade and the lives of merchant crews. India remains one of the world's largest suppliers of trained seafarers, making the safety of maritime workers a major priority for national policy and foreign affairs.