The GFS Galaxy vessel attack off the coast of Oman has prompted a strong condemnation from India, after 10 of the 11 Indian nationals on board the merchant ship were rescued while one remains missing. In an official statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said the targeting of civilian shipping and infrastructure in the region must end, and confirmed that its embassy in Oman was closely tracking the situation.
“We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman, earlier today. Of the 11 Indian nationals on board, 10 have been rescued so far, while 1 Indian National is reportedly missing,” the ministry said in its statement. It added that the Indian Embassy in Oman was coordinating proactively with Omani authorities as the search and rescue operation continued.
What Is Known About GFS Galaxy Vessel Attack
According to the United States Central Command, GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-flagged container ship, came under attack from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The Iran IRGC attack ship incident left the vessel unable to continue its journey, with US officials citing an onboard fire and significant damage to the engine room. A civilian crew member was reported missing following the strike.
In a post on social media platform X, US Central Command said it had begun launching a third round of strikes against Iran this week in response to the attack. The statement said Iran had been given another opportunity to demonstrate adherence to a Memorandum of Understanding after being held accountable for earlier attacks on commercial vessels, but had again failed to do so. US Central Command described the strikes as an effort to degrade Iran’s ability to attack civilian mariners and commercial ships passing through the strait, carried out at the direction of the Commander in Chief.
India MEA Statement Calls for De-escalation
The India MEA statement went further than confirming the rescue effort, framing the incident as part of a broader and troubling pattern in the region. “The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions, and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region,” the ministry said.
The ministry also called for the restoration of free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the region’s international waterways, in keeping with international law. It said the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure must end, underscoring New Delhi’s concern for the safety of Indian nationals who make up a significant share of the global merchant marine workforce and are frequently exposed to the risks of regional conflict at sea.
Indian Nationals Rescued Oman as Search Continues
The rescue of 10 of the 11 Indian nationals aboard GFS Galaxy offers some reassurance amid a tense and fast-moving situation, though the fate of the remaining crew member is not yet confirmed. Indian officials have said the embassy in Oman continues to monitor developments closely and remains in contact with Omani authorities as search efforts proceed.
The GFS Galaxy vessel attack adds to a growing list of incidents involving commercial shipping in the waters around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime corridors. With tensions between the United States and Iran continuing to affect vessels transiting the area, India’s statement reflects both immediate concern for its citizens at sea and a broader appeal for the region’s shipping lanes to remain safe and open.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 14, 2026
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