HORMUZ MARITIME DANGER STRIKES AGAIN: KUWAIT-FLAGGED TANKER HIT, ALL 21 INDIAN SAILORS SAFE

October 23, 2026

The Kuwait-flagged oil tanker MT Al Dasma was struck by an unidentified projectile while navigating the strategically important Strait of Hormuz on October 21, raising fresh concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in the region. The vessel was carrying 21 Indian crew members, all of whom have been confirmed safe, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, Sonowal confirmed that all 21 Indian seafarers, along with the rest of the crew aboard the tanker, were safe. The minister said the Indian government was closely monitoring the situation and maintaining direct contact with the ship management company to safeguard the crew.

“We are continuously monitoring the situation and remain in close contact with the ship management company to ensure the ongoing security and well-being of our seafarers,” Sonowal said.

The incident adds to concerns about maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital international waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman. The passage is strategically significant for global energy transportation and commercial shipping, making attacks on vessels in the area a matter of international concern.

Although the crew's safety has been confirmed, the projectile's origin and the full circumstances surrounding the strike were not specified in the minister's statement. Indian authorities continue to monitor developments and remain in contact with the vessel's management to ensure the continued safety and well-being of the seafarers.