Indian National Killed in Iranian ‘Suicide Boat’ Attack on US‑Owned Oil Tanker near Iraq
27 crew rescued after attack off Khor Al Zubair port in Iraq; calls for urgent action to protect Indian seafarers
New York, Mar 12: An Indian national has been reportedly killed in an attack by Iran using a “suicide” boat on the US-owned, Marshall Islands flagged oil tanker Safesea Vishnu near Khor Al Zubair port in Iraq’s territorial waters, sources told PTI.
The remaining 27 crew members on board were rescued and taken to Basra. Company sources expressed devastation over the loss and urged the Indian government to strongly condemn the attack and take immediate measures to safeguard seafarers amid escalating tensions in West Asia.
Indian nationals make up over 15% of global seafarers, raising concerns that they could become collateral victims in regional conflicts. The Safesea Vishnu, a 228.6 meter long crude oil tanker built in 2007, has a gross tonnage of 42,010 and a deadweight tonnage of 73,976.
The incident highlights the growing risks for merchant vessels operating in conflict prone waters and underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures for Indian crew members abroad.
