Oman drone attack: 2 Indians killed in Sohar; MEA confirms first land casualties of war

New Delhi: Two Indian nationals were killed on Friday when drone debris struck an industrial area in Sohar, Oman, marking the first land-based Indian fatalities since the outbreak of the current West Asia conflict.

Aseem Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), disclosed the deaths during an Inter-Ministerial Briefing on Recent Developments in West Asia. He reported that in addition to the two fatalities, 10 other Indians were injured in the strike.

"I wish to share with all of you an incident which has happened in Sohar City in Muscat today. There was an attack, and in this incident, two Indian nationals have died. We express our deepest condolences to their families," Mahajan said. He noted that five of the injured have been discharged, while five others remain hospitalised with non-serious injuries.

The deaths occurred in the al-Awahi industrial zone after a drone was intercepted, sending debris into the area. Omani authorities reportedly downed a second drone in the same province during the incident.

Update on the Safesea Vishnu

Mahajan also provided the latest on the Safesea Vishnu, a U.S.-owned oil tanker attacked near Basra, Iraq, on March 9. He confirmed that the 15 remaining Indian crew members have been safely evacuated and are currently housed in a local hotel.

"Efforts are also underway to transport the mortal remains of the deceased Indian national and for safe repatriation of the 15 rescued seafarers. Our mission team is in Basra and is rendering all assistance," Mahajan said.

Escalating Regional Tensions

The conflict, now in its 14th day, was catalysed by the Feb. 28 joint U.S.-Israeli operation that resulted in the death of Iran's former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In the ensuing weeks, retaliatory strikes have disrupted global shipping and energy markets, with Tehran threatening to close the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed "serious concern" Thursday over the worsening crisis, warning of its threat to global stability. In a social media statement, Guterres called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to the negotiating table.

"De-escalation and dialogue are the only way out," Guterres said, emphasising the need to protect civilians and uphold international law.

With inputs from ANI