Indian National Killed in Attack on U.S.-Owned Oil Tanker in Iraqi Waters An Indian national was killed in an attack by Iran on a U.S.-owned oil tanker, the Safesea Vishnu, which was operating near Iraq’s territorial waters. The incident occurred on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, when an Iranian "suicide" boat targeted the vessel off the Khor Al Zubair port. The attack resulted in the death of one Indian crew member, while the remaining 27 personnel aboard the tanker were rescued and transported to Basra, according to sources. The Safesea Vishnu, a crude oil tanker registered under the Marshall Islands flag, was attacked in the Persian Gulf region, which has seen heightened tensions amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The Indian embassy in Iraq confirmed the death of the Indian national and stated that 15 Indian crew members were among those rescued. The embassy emphasized its ongoing coordination with Iraqi authorities and its commitment to providing support to the affected sailors. Sources close to the shipping company expressed deep concern over the incident, urging the Indian government to strongly condemn the attack and take measures to safeguard Indian seafarers in the region. They highlighted that Indians constitute over 15% of the global seafaring workforce, making them vulnerable to such attacks regardless of the target vessel. The company’s representatives called for urgent action to prevent further casualties, noting that the attack could have broader implications for the safety of Indian nationals operating in conflict zones. The attack has drawn attention to the risks faced by maritime workers in the Persian Gulf, where tensions between regional powers have escalated.#iran #iraq #safesea_vishnu #khor_al_zubair #indian_embassy
