India’s Ministry of External Affairs condemned the incident, demanding the restoration of unimpeded navigation through these critical international waters. Sarbananda Sonowal, the Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, confirmed the vessel was hit while transiting near Yemeni territory. The attack highlights the persistent danger surrounding the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, where Iran-aligned Houthi forces continue to target vessels linked to Saudi interests.
India-Flagged Tanker Sinks After Red Sea Strike
Thirteen Indian sailors were rescued by the Yemeni Coast Guard on August 4, 2026, after their vessel, the MSV Faize Noore Oliya, capsized following a projectile strike. The ship, which was reportedly transporting Saudi oil, succumbed to the attack off the coast of Yemen, marking a sharp escalation in regional maritime insecurity.
Security analysts tracking regional shipping report that the current climate is the most hazardous since the Iran war. In response to the ongoing threat, many tanker operators have begun navigating the chokepoint in "dark mode"—disabling tracking systems to avoid detection. While Saudi Arabia has shifted some export routes toward the Suez Canal, others continue to brave the southern passage, often resulting in severe consequences for commercial crews and cargo.
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