Indian crew safe on Liaki Freedom after reports of US attack, MEA calls claims ‘baseless’

Reports claiming that another Indian-crewed commercial vessel had come under attack in the Gulf triggered concern on Saturday morning. However, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) quickly moved to clarify the situation, stating that all crew members aboard the vessel were safe and that claims of an attack were unfounded.

The vessel, identified as Liaki Freedom, had reportedly stopped responding while operating off the coast of Oman, leading to speculation on social media about a possible strike. The reports emerged amid heightened tensions in Gulf waters following a series of incidents involving ships carrying Indian sailors.

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MEA issues fact-check

Responding to the claims, the MEA said it had established contact with the vessel's master, who confirmed that there had been no attack and that everyone onboard was safe.

In a fact-check statement, the ministry said, “Fake News Alert! Please stay alert against such false and baseless claims and posts on social media.”

The clarification came shortly after concerns were raised by the Forward Seamen's Union of India, which said it had been unable to establish communication with the ship through its Very High Frequency (VHF) radio system. The union, however, was able to track the vessel's location using its coordinates.

Gulf incidents raise concerns

The rumours surfaced against the backdrop of multiple maritime incidents in the Gulf involving ships with Indian crew members.

The most serious of these occurred on Wednesday when the commercial vessel Settebello was struck in the Gulf. Three Indian seafarers initially reported missing were later confirmed dead.

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“It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello. Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing are now confirmed dead after bodies have been located and identified,” shipping minister Sarbananda Sonowal said in a post on X.

“I have directed officials to ensure immediate repatriation of the rescued crew members and swift return of the mortal remains of the deceased for their final rites,” he added.

India lodges protest with US

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said he spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday and conveyed India's concerns over the recent attacks.

“Spoke to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio this evening. I reiterated India’s strong protest at the attacks by the US Navy in the Gulf that killed three Indian mariners. Such lethal actions against commercial shipping are not justified,” he wrote on X.

In separate incidents this week, all Indian crew members aboard MT Jalveer and MT Marivex were rescued safely after emergencies at sea, according to the MEA.