Haji Ali, a cargo ship from Gujarat, sank off the coast of Oman after a suspected drone strike, with all 14 Indian crew members rescued safely by Omani authorities, according to officials. The incident has heightened concerns over maritime security in the region amid escalating tensions linked to the Iran–US conflict in the Strait of Hormuz.
The vessel, registered at Salaya Port in Devbhoomi Dwarka district, was sailing from Somalia to Sharjah carrying livestock when the incident occurred early 13 May. Reports said the ship was passing near Limah, off Oman’s northern coast, at around 3:30 am when it was struck by an unidentified explosive object, suspected to be a drone or missile. The impact triggered a fire on board, causing the vessel to lose stability before eventually sinking into the sea. The crew acted quickly after the strike. As flames spread through the ship, the 14 sailors — including one tandel and 13 crew members — sent out a distress signal and evacuated into lifeboats.
The Oman Coast Guard launched a rescue operation and brought all crew members safely to Deeba port. Ship owner Sultan Ahmed Sanghar later confirmed that all those on board were safe.
It is not immediately known who carried out the strike on the vessel on May 13. but the Ministry of External Affairs described the attack as ‘unacceptable’. Several livestock animals being transported on the vessel were reportedly washed away after the ship sank into the sea.
The MEA confirmed that all 14 Indian sailors rescued from the sunken vessel were safe.
