India on Sunday, 12 July condemned the attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy, which was carrying Indian nationals, off the coast of Oman, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) describing the continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region as 'deeply worrisome.' The MEA confirmed that 10 of the Indian nationals on board have been rescued, while one person remains reportedly missing.

India's Response and Rescue Efforts

The Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities as a Search and Rescue operation remains ongoing. India also thanked Oman for its support in the efforts.

In its official statement, the MEA said: '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 MEA further stated: 'The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region, in keeping with international law, must be restored at the earliest.'

What Happened to GFS Galaxy

The GFS Galaxy is a Cyprus-flagged container ship that was transiting the Strait of Hormuz when it was attacked by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), according to US Central Command. The vessel suffered an onboard fire and significant engine room damage, leaving it unable to continue its journey. A civilian crew member is reported missing.

In a post on X, US Central Command stated that at 7:15 p.m. ET, US forces began launching the 'third round of strikes this week against Iran' in response to the attack. The statement added that 'Iran was provided yet another opportunity to demonstrate adherence to the Memorandum of Understanding after being held accountable for earlier attacks on commercial vessels but has again failed.'

US Central Command further noted: 'The strikes are being carried out at the direction of the Commander in Chief.'

Strategic Significance of the Strait of Hormuz

The incident unfolded amid sharply elevated tensions in waters around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global chokepoint that carries approximately one-fifth of the world's traded oil. Any sustained disruption to navigation through the strait carries significant consequences for global energy security and supply chains.

Notably, this is at least the third such attack on commercial vessels in the region this week alone, according to US Central Command's statement — underscoring a pattern of escalating maritime hostilities that India and other nations have repeatedly warned against.

What Comes Next

With one Indian national still missing, the Indian Embassy in Oman has said its officials are in close contact with Omani authorities, the vessel's management, and other concerned stakeholders, extending all possible assistance. The Search and Rescue operation is continuing. India's call for diplomatic de-escalation reflects growing concern in New Delhi about the safety of Indian seafarers operating in the volatile Gulf region, where commercial shipping has faced repeated targeting in recent months.