New Delhi, July 12: India on Sunday condemned the attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy carrying Indian nationals off the coast of Oman, terming the continuous incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region “deeply worrisome.”

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that 10 of the Indian nationals on board were rescued, while one person is still reportedly missing. The MEA said that the Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the Omani authorities in the ongoing Search and Rescue operation. It also thanked the Omani authorities for their support.

In a statement, the MEA said, “The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions, and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region.”

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

In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Oman said that it is closely monitoring the incident involving the vessel GFS Galaxy. It further said that its officials are in close contact with the Omani authorities, the vessel’s management, and the concerned stakeholders, and is extending all possible assistance.

Earlier in the day, US Central Command said that GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-flagged container ship, was attacked by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) when transiting the Strait of Hormuz, leaving a crew member missing.

In a post on X, the US Central Command stated, “At 7:15 p.m. ET today, US Central Command forces began launching the third round of strikes this week against Iran after Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces blatantly attacked M/V GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-flagged container ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz. A civilian crew member is missing and the vessel is unable to continue the journey due to an onboard fire and significant engineroom damage.”

“Iran was provided yet another opportunity to demonstrate adherence to the Memorandum of Understanding after being held accountable for earlier attacks on commercial vessels but has again failed. In response, the United States is imposing a heavy cost by continuing to degrade Iran’s ability to attack civilian mariners and commercial ships freely transiting the strait. The strikes are being carried out at the direction of the Commander in Chief,” it added.

The incident occurred amid increased tensions in waters around the Strait of Hormuz, which carries about one-fifth of the world’s traded oil and is critical for global energy security.

Tehran, July 12: Iran has launched a series of strikes on US targets in the Middle East, Press TV reported on Sunday.

Missile alert sirens sounded in Bahrain as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar also came under attack, reports said.

The UAE Defence Ministry said Sunday that its air defence systems were engaging missile and drone threats, while Bahrain’s Interior Ministry urged residents to remain calm and proceed to the nearest safe location.

According to Press TV reports, the US targets hit in the latest Iranian strikes included a Patriot air defense system, an ammunition depot and a US military radar facility in Kuwait.

In response to US attacks, Iran also targeted a US military communications facility and a radar facility in Bahrain, and launched a ballistic missile strike against the US airbase of Al Udeid in Qatar, according to the reports.

Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps said Sunday that its aerospace forces had carried out a heavy attack on US aircraft carrier support and refueling facilities at Oman’s Port of Duqm, adding that the operation targeted logistical support centers for US naval vessels.

Earlier, US launched a third round of strikes against Iran after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps attacked a Cyprus-flagged container ship in the Strait of Hormuz, the US military said.

US Central Command said its forces began the strikes at 7:15 p.m. Eastern Time (4.45 am Sunday Indian time). It said the operation was ordered by President Donald Trump in his capacity as commander in chief.

The latest military action followed an attack on the M/V GFS Galaxy, a commercial container ship sailing through the strategic waterway.

“At 7:15 p.m. ET today, US Central Command forces began launching the third round of strikes this week against Iran after Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces blatantly attacked M/V GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-flagged container ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz,” CENTCOM said in a statement.

The command did not immediately identify the locations struck or provide details about the targets. It also did not say which weapons were being used in the operation.

A civilian crew member remained missing after the attack on the vessel, according to CENTCOM.

Auckland, July 11: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that the India-New Zealand relationship is built on cherished memories, enduring friendship, shared values and a common commitment.

Addressing a grand Indian diaspora event in Auckland titled ‘Kia Ora Modi’ alongside his New Zealand counterpart, Christopher Luxon, PM Modi highlighted that he has brought with him the best wishes of 140 crore Indians and that it is his “great fortune” to become the first Indian PM in 40 years to visit New Zealand.

“Friends, in the relationship between India and New Zealand, there are memories, there is friendship, there are values, and there is also a commitment. One beautiful New Zealand tradition defines this relationship perfectly – it is the word ‘waka’ (Māori canoe) which binds this relationship… Waka is not merely a boat. It is a symbol of shared journey, a symbol of our shared relationship. This waka is set to take a new journey today and a sea of opportunities lies ahead of us, the wind and waves are backing us,” said PM Modi to a huge applause from thousands of people gathered at the venue.

PM Modi went on to add that he has complete faith in the success of this journey.

“Not because of Modi, but because you all are its true navigators,” he stated.

The venue echoed with chants of “Modi, Modi” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” as Prime Minister Modi continued his address.

“From Auckland to Wellington, Christchurch to Queenstown, the Indian community spread across every corner of New Zealand is a vital part of this shared journey. I would like to specially acknowledge my friend Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, all the colleagues from the New Zealand government, and the members of the Labour Party present here. This demonstrates the immense bipartisan support that exists for India-New Zealand relations. It also highlights the magnitude of the achievements and contributions of the Kiwi-Indian community,” reflected PM Modi.

Earlier, artists presented a series of cultural dance performances and folk music to welcome the Indian Prime Minister, adding to the celebratory mood and showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage before the assembled audience.

Holding Indian Tricolour and New Zealand flags, enthusiastic members of the diaspora eagerly waited to catch a glimpse of Prime Minister Modi.

Many raised their mobile phones to capture the memorable moment, contributing to the lively and energetic atmosphere throughout the venue.

The event reflected the strong people-to-people ties between India and New Zealand, with the large turnout underscoring the excitement among the Indian community over the Prime Minister’s visit.

During the programme, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon were also presented with commemorative jerseys bearing their names and the number “100”, marking a special moment during the celebrations.