Drone Strike Damages ‘Israel-Linked’ Merchant Ship In Indian Ocean: Report

A merchant ship in the Indian Ocean was damaged in a drone strike on Saturday, causing a fire on board, news agency AFP reported citing two maritime agencies. No casualties were reported in the attack off the coast of India. The vessel, identified as the “Liberia-flagged chemical/products tanker,” is reported to be affiliated with Israel, as per AFP.

The incident was confirmed by the British military’s United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations and maritime security firm Ambrey. The drone strike raises concerns about the security of shipping lanes in the region.

According to AFP, Ambrey, detailing the attack, stated, “The Liberia-flagged chemical/products tanker sustained a drone attack with a resultant explosion and fire. As of the last report, the fire onboard is reported to have been contained, and the vessel remains afloat.” The firm also highlighted the vessel’s affiliation with Israel.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations issued a warning to ships in the region about the incident, urging heightened vigilance. The specifics of the attack, including the type of drone used and the outfit responsible, remain to be confirmed.

Indian Coast Guard ship ICGS Vikram is moving towards a merchant vessel MV Chem Pluto in the Arabian Sea 217 nautical miles off Porbandar cost after it reported a fire incident suspected to be caused by a drone attack, news agency ANI reported Defence officials as informing.

“The vessel had crude oil and was going towards Mangalore from a port in Saudi Arabia. As per inputs received, the fire has been extinguished but it has affected its functioning. The ICGS Vikram was deployed on the patrol of the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone when it was directed towards the merchant ship in distress. All crew are safe which includes around 20 Indians. The ICGS Vikram has alerted all ships in the area to provide assistance to it,” Defence officials told ANI.