Overview
- The Nicaragua-flagged tanker MT PETRO DOLPHIN was struck by a drone at Sohar Anchorage on Sunday, and nine of the 11 Indian seafarers aboard were rescued while two remain missing.
- Oman's coast guard is conducting active search-and-rescue operations and Indian authorities, including the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and the Indian Embassy in Oman, are coordinating support for survivors and the search.
- Officials have confirmed the drone strike and the crew's nationality but have not publicly assigned responsibility for the attack.
- The strike follows a recent rise in unexplained incidents against tankers and other vessels in and near the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about the safety of energy shipments and seafarers in the Gulf.
- Families and rescued crew require medical and consular assistance, and the event is likely to prompt closer monitoring by investigators, insurers and ship operators of routes and protective measures in the coming days.