ABU DHABI, UAE — May 15, 2026
The United Arab Emirates strongly condemned the attack on an Indian-flagged commercial vessel near the coast of Oman, describing the incident as a serious threat to international maritime security ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Abu Dhabi.
In an official statement, the UAE said the attack represented a “dangerous provocation” targeting the stability of critical global shipping routes and reaffirmed its full support for India’s efforts to protect maritime interests in the region.
UAE Calls Attack a Threat to Global Maritime Stability
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said attacks on commercial shipping vessels are completely unacceptable and could destabilize international maritime trade and energy supply chains.
Without directly naming any country or organization, the UAE warned against using strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz for “economic pressure” or “blackmail,” comparing such actions to maritime piracy.
Officials said any attempt to disrupt freedom of navigation threatens regional stability, civilian safety and global energy security.
The statement emphasized that maintaining secure sea lanes remains essential for international trade and economic stability.
UAE Pledges Support for India
The UAE expressed solidarity with India and pledged support for measures aimed at safeguarding Indian vessels and maritime operations.
According to the statement, the attack violated international principles protecting freedom of navigation and commercial maritime activity under global maritime security frameworks supported by the United Nations Security Council.
The Gulf nation also stressed the importance of collective international efforts to secure major shipping corridors in the Arabian Sea and surrounding waters.
India Also Condemns the Incident
India’s Ministry of External Affairs also strongly condemned the attack, calling the targeting of commercial vessels and civilian sailors “deeply concerning.”
Indian officials confirmed that all Indian crew members aboard the vessel are safe and said Omani authorities assisted in rescue and emergency response operations.
The ministry reiterated that attacks on commercial shipping and disruptions to maritime trade routes are unacceptable and must be prevented.
Indian authorities have not yet publicly disclosed the name of the vessel or the extent of damage caused during the incident.
Maritime Security Likely to Feature in Modi-UAE Talks
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Abu Dhabi comes amid growing concerns over maritime security in the Gulf region and the Arabian Sea.
Government sources indicated that the attack and broader regional security cooperation are likely to be key discussion points during meetings between Indian and UAE leaders.
Experts believe India and the UAE may explore deeper coordination on maritime surveillance, naval cooperation and protection of commercial shipping routes.
The latest incident has once again highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest energy and trade corridors through which a significant share of global oil shipments pass every day.
Growing Concerns Over Regional Shipping Security
Recent tensions in the Gulf region have intensified concerns among international shipping operators and energy markets over the safety of vessels navigating near the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters.
Security analysts say any escalation affecting commercial maritime traffic could have wider implications for global trade, energy prices and regional geopolitical stability.
Authorities in India, Oman and the UAE continue to monitor the situation closely.
