New Delhi, November 4, 2026: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said that 23 Indian nationals have lost their lives in the ongoing West Asia conflict, including 15 Indian seafarers. Separately, five Indians have been killed in attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea region, while two others remain missing.
The figures were shared by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a media briefing on Tuesday, November 3. The latest West Asia fatality followed an attack on the Indian-flagged commercial vessel MSV Al Jusufi near Limah, off the coast of Oman.
One crew member killed, 13 rescued near Oman
The vessel was carrying 14 Indian nationals when it came under attack on November 2. The MEA said 13 crew members were rescued by Omani authorities, while one Indian national died after sustaining injuries.
India’s embassy in Muscat is coordinating with Omani authorities for the early repatriation of the rescued crew and the return of the deceased sailor’s mortal remains. The MEA expressed condolences and thanked Oman for its rescue assistance.
Separate casualties reported in the Black Sea
During the same briefing, the MEA spokesperson said five Indian nationals had died in attacks involving commercial shipping in the Black Sea region, with two others still missing. These figures were reported separately from the 23 deaths connected to the West Asia conflict.
India calls for de-escalation and safe navigation
India reiterated its call for immediate de-escalation and a diplomatic solution. The government also stressed that commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure must not be targeted and that freedom of navigation through international waterways should be protected.
The incidents underline the risks faced by Indian seafarers working on international routes during regional conflicts. The government said it was coordinating with relevant authorities to assist affected nationals and facilitate repatriation.
The featured photograph is a representative image of maritime security and is not a photograph of the vessel involved in the incident.
