An Indian sailor has been killed in an attack on a cargo ship off the east coast of Oman, noting that continuing attacks on commercial vessels are “extremely worrisome”, New Delhi’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) says in a statement.

Condemning the attack, the MEA says the Indian embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities for the early repatriation of the Indian seafarers.

“The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. We reiterate our call for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and enable early return of peace to the region,” it adds.

“The targeting of commercial shipping, seafarers and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region must be restored at the earliest.”