Indian Sailing Vessel Sinks After Red Sea Attack

The Indian mechanised sailing vessel MSV Faize Noore Oliya sank in the Red Sea on August 4, 2026, after being struck by a projectile or an explosives-laden boat. The attack occurred approximately 13 nautical miles south of the Houthi-controlled port city of Hodeidah, contributing to heightened security concerns in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Sarbananda Sonowal, India's Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the strike on the defenseless civilian cargo vessel. The Yemeni Navy and Coast Guard conducted a joint rescue operation, saving all 14 crew members, including 13 Indian nationals and one Yemeni national. The survivors were transported to the port of Mokha for medical assistance.

Yemen's government-aligned National Resistance Forces attributed the attack to the Houthis, although the group has not publicly commented and no organization has officially claimed responsibility. In response, the Indian government directed the Directorate General of Maritime Administration to coordinate security for seafarers in the region.