New Delhi, July 24 (ANI): India on Friday strongly condemned the attack on the commercial vessel MV OMORFI in the Black Sea that killed an Indian national, calling attacks on merchant shipping unacceptable and urging all parties to ensure the safety of maritime navigation and international commerce.
The attack occurred on July 18 as MV OMORFI was transiting the Black Sea, reportedly within Russian territorial waters. The vessel had 10 crew members on board, including three Indian nationals. One Indian sailor was killed, while the other two were reported safe.
In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, “On 18 July 2026, the commercial vessel MV OMORFI was attacked while transiting the Black Sea, reportedly in Russian territorial waters. At the time of the incident, there were 10 crew members on board, including three Indian nationals. As per available information, one Indian national tragically lost his life in the attack. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased. The other two Indian nationals on board are reported to be safe.”
Reiterating its position, the ministry said, “India unequivocally condemns such attacks targeting commercial shipping and placing the lives of innocent civilian crew members at risk. It is a matter of serious concern that the freedom of navigation and international commerce is facing increasing threats. India calls upon all concerned parties to uphold international obligations to ensure the safety and security of maritime navigation and the uninterrupted flow of global commerce.”
The attack follows a similar incident on July 19 involving MV Golden Leo, a Guinea-Bissau-flagged cargo vessel, which was struck shortly after departing Ukraine’s port of Odesa. The vessel had 17 crew members on board, including five Indian nationals. Four of the Indian crew members were killed, and one was critically injured.
Following that incident, the MEA issued a statement condemning the attack, reiterating that civilian crews and commercial shipping must not be targeted, and confirmed that the Indian mission in Ukraine was providing all necessary assistance to those affected.
The consecutive attacks have heightened safety concerns for commercial shipping in the Black Sea, where escalating conflict continues to pose increasing risks to civilian maritime routes and global trade. (ANI)
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