Tensions in the Middle East have intensified following a suicide attack on a US oil tanker, ‘Safisa Vishnu’, off the coast of Iraq. Reports confirm that the vessel was targeted by an explosive-laden boat deployed by Iranian forces, leading to a massive inferno on board that claimed the life of an Indian crew member.

As of March 12, the ongoing conflict between Iran, Israel, and the US has resulted in the deaths of three Indians, with over 20 injured. The toll includes casualties from the March 1-2 drone and missile strikes on commercial vessels ‘MV MKD Vyom’ and ‘MV Skylight’ off the Omani coast. Additionally, a projectile attack in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia, on March 7 left one Indian citizen injured.

In response to the deteriorating security situation, the Indian government has issued a special advisory for citizens in the region. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urgently appealed for de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. While no further Indian casualties have been reported as of March 12, the region remains a high-risk zone.