Iran Attack on US Oil Tanker ‘Safesea Vishnu’, One Indian Dead
Suicide boat strike near Iraq amid ongoing US–Israel–Iran conflict; safety concerns rise for millions of Indians in Gulf region
In the midst of the ongoing conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel, the impact of the war is now being felt by other countries as well. A tragic incident has come to light in which an Indian national was killed after Iran allegedly targeted a US-owned oil tanker with a suicide boat near Iraqi waters.
The tanker, named Safesea Vishnu, was attacked in the sea near Iraq during the escalating tensions in the Middle East. According to reports, the vessel was specifically targeted amid the ongoing military confrontation in the region.
So far, at least three Indian nationals have been confirmed dead and more than 20 people injured in attacks linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran. The tensions have now entered the 13th day as of 12 March, and there are still no signs of de-escalation.
Earlier incidents:
On March 1 and 2, Iran reportedly carried out drone and missile attacks on two commercial vessels — MV MKD Vyom and MV Skylight — near the coast of Oman. In those attacks, three Indian nationals were killed, including two crew members from Skylight and one from Vyom. More than 20 people were injured, and one person remains on ventilator support. These attacks were believed to be retaliation for strikes carried out by the United States and Israel.
Earlier reports on March 7 had suggested that an Indian national was killed in an attack at Al Kharj. However, later updates clarified that there were no fatalities in that incident, although one Indian citizen was injured. Indian consular officials visited the injured person in hospital.
Around 9 to 10 million Indians live and work in Gulf countries including United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. With Iran launching more than 1,000 drones and missiles targeting US military bases and oil facilities in the region, concerns about the safety of the Indian community have grown significantly.
The Government of India has issued advisories for Indian citizens living in the region. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also called for dialogue and diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict peacefully.
