New Delhi: An Indian seafarer was killed after a commercial vessel came under attack while transiting the Black Sea, prompting the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to strongly condemn the incident and express concern over the safety of civilian shipping. The government said the attack on the merchant vessel MV OMORFI was unacceptable and reiterated the need to ensure the security of international maritime navigation.
The incident comes just days after another deadly attack on a commercial vessel in the Black Sea involving Indian nationals, highlighting growing concerns over the safety of merchant ships operating in the conflict-hit region.
Vessel attacked during Black Sea transit
According to the MEA, the MV OMORFI was attacked on July 18 while sailing through the Black Sea, reportedly in Russian territorial waters. One Indian crew member lost his life in the attack, while two other Indian nationals on board were reported to be safe.
The ministry said India’s diplomatic mission had immediately taken up the matter with the relevant authorities and was extending all possible assistance to the deceased seafarer’s family.
India condemns attack on commercial shipping
In its statement, the MEA said attacks on commercial merchant vessels and civilian seafarers are unacceptable and undermine the principles of safe maritime navigation and international trade.
The ministry called on all parties involved in the conflict to respect international obligations and ensure the safety of civilian shipping routes in the Black Sea.
India also expressed condolences to the family of the deceased seafarer and said it remains in contact with authorities to monitor the situation closely.
Second deadly incident involving Indian sailors
The latest tragedy follows another fatal incident earlier this week in which four Indian nationals were killed after a merchant vessel came under attack while sailing from Ukraine’s Odesa port. That incident led India to summon a senior Russian diplomat and register its strong protest over the deaths of Indian crew members.
With two serious incidents involving Indian seafarers occurring within a short span, concerns have grown over the risks faced by merchant ships operating in the Black Sea amid the continuing conflict.
Maritime safety under renewed focus
The latest attack has once again drawn attention to the vulnerability of commercial shipping in conflict zones. India has consistently maintained that civilian vessels should not become targets and has urged all sides to uphold international maritime law.
The government said it would continue engaging with the relevant authorities while providing all necessary assistance to the affected family and monitoring the safety of Indian nationals serving aboard merchant vessels in the region.
Conclusion
The death of another Indian seafarer in the Black Sea underscores the growing dangers confronting merchant shipping in active conflict areas. As geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt global trade routes, India has reiterated its call for the protection of civilian vessels and the safety of seafarers navigating international waters.