Mumbai, March 12 -- An Indian seafarer was killed after a United States-owned crude oil tanker came under attack during cargo loading operations off Khor Al Zubair Port near Basra in Iraq, triggering a major fire and forcing the entire crew to abandon the vessel, officials said on Thursday.
According to information received here, the incident occurred late on Wednesday when the tanker MT Safesea Vishnu was struck by what authorities believe was an explosive-laden unmanned speedboat in waters near Basra, Iraq. Initial reports suggested the attack may have originated from Iran, raising fresh concerns over maritime security in the region amid escalating tensions in West Asia.
The Directorate General of Shipping said the vessel, flying the fl...