Indian cargo vessel sinks off Yemen after attack

An Indian-flagged merchant vessel sank off the coast of Yemen after coming under attack, but all 14 crew members on board were rescued safely, Indian Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has confirmed.

The vessel, MSV Faiz Noor-e-Aulia, was carrying a crew of 14, including 13 Indian nationals, when it was struck by shelling in waters off Yemen, according to Indian authorities.

Describing the incident as a "provocative attack," Sonowal expressed deep concern over the safety of commercial shipping in the region and said India would take all necessary steps to safeguard its seafarers. The identity of those responsible for the attack, however, has not been officially confirmed.

In a statement, India's Ministry of External Affairs strongly condemned the assault, calling for the protection of safe and unrestricted navigation in international waters and stressing the need to uphold international law to ensure uninterrupted global trade.

Meanwhile, Yemen's internationally recognised, Saudi-backed government accused the Houthi movement of carrying out the attack using an explosive-laden boat. The Houthis have not responded publicly to the allegation.

The incident comes amid renewed security concerns in the Red Sea, where attacks on commercial vessels have increased in recent months. The strategic waterway has seen heavier shipping traffic after many oil tankers began using the route to avoid instability around the Strait of Hormuz.

Separately, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said several commercial vessels had also come under attack in the region last week, highlighting the deteriorating security situation.

While US officials have claimed that discussions on reopening the Strait of Hormuz are progressing positively, Iran has reiterated that it is not engaged in direct talks with Washington, saying diplomatic contacts continue through Oman's mediation.