An Indian cargo ship registered in Gujarat sank near the coast of Oman after it was reportedly hit by a suspected drone strike early Wednesday morning. All 14 Indian crew members on board were rescued safely by Omani authorities. The incident has raised fresh concerns over maritime security in the region as tensions linked to the Iran–US conflict continue to affect the Strait of Hormuz.

The vessel, named Haji Ali, was registered at Salaya Port in Gujarat’s Devbhoomi Dwarka district. It was travelling from Somalia to Sharjah and was carrying livestock at the time of the incident. According to reports, the ship was moving near Limah, located off the northern coast of Oman, around 3:30 am when it was suddenly struck by an unidentified explosive object. Officials suspect the attack may have involved a drone or missile.

The impact caused a major fire on the vessel. Flames quickly spread across the ship, leading to loss of stability. Within a short time, the cargo vessel started sinking into the sea. The exact source of the attack has not yet been identified, and authorities are still investigating the incident.

The crew members acted immediately after the strike. As the fire intensified, the sailors sent out a distress signal seeking urgent help. The crew included one tandel and 13 other sailors. All of them managed to evacuate safely using lifeboats before the vessel completely sank.

Following the distress call, the Oman Coast Guard launched a rescue operation in the area. Rescue teams reached the crew members in time and safely brought them to Deeba port in Oman. Officials confirmed that none of the sailors suffered serious harm during the incident.

Ship owner Sultan Ahmed Sanghar later confirmed that all the crew members onboard had survived and were safe. Families of the sailors were informed soon after the rescue operation was completed.

The incident has once again highlighted growing risks for commercial ships operating in waters around the Strait of Hormuz. The region has remained tense due to ongoing geopolitical conflicts and repeated attacks on commercial vessels in recent years. Shipping companies and maritime agencies have been closely monitoring the situation as security threats continue to rise.

India also reacted strongly to the attack. The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the incident and expressed concern over continued threats to civilian vessels and sailors in international waters.

"The attack on an Indian-flagged ship off the coast of Oman yesterday is unacceptable, and we deplore the fact that commercial shipping and civilian mariners continue to be targeted," it said.

The ministry’s statement reflected India’s concern over the safety of Indian vessels and crew members operating in sensitive maritime zones. The government is expected to remain in touch with Omani authorities and monitor developments related to the investigation.

The attack comes at a time when international shipping routes in the Gulf region are facing increasing uncertainty due to rising military tensions. Maritime experts believe such incidents could impact commercial movement through one of the world’s busiest sea routes if security conditions worsen further.