Two Indian nationals were killed and ten others injured in a drone strike on an industrial area in Sohar, Oman, on Friday, according to officials from the Ministry of External Affairs. The attack marks the first deaths of Indian citizens on land in West Asia since the Iran–US conflict of 2026 began on February 28.
Attack On Industrial Zone
The strike targeted the Al Awahi Industrial Area in Sohar, a major port city located about 200 kilometres from Muscat. Authorities said two unmanned aerial vehicles crashed in the area, with one drone hitting the industrial zone and killing two expatriate workers, including the Indian nationals.
Ten other Indians were injured in the incident. According to Aseem Mahajan, Joint Secretary (Gulf) at the Ministry of External Affairs, five of the injured have already been discharged from hospital, while the remaining five are receiving treatment and are reported to be out of danger.
Government Monitoring Situation
The Indian mission in Oman is in constant contact with local authorities and the company employing the workers to ensure assistance for those affected. Officials also expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
The Oman News Agency confirmed that two drones crashed in Sohar, causing casualties among foreign workers.
Rising Risks For Indians In West Asia
Since the conflict between Iran and the United States escalated, several drone and missile attacks have occurred across the region, including in the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf states.
Before this incident, three Indian sailors had already been killed in attacks on merchant vessels in regional waters, while one seafarer remains missing.
Evacuations And Repatriation Efforts
The Indian government has intensified efforts to safeguard nearly 10 million Indian nationals living in West Asian countries. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, about 150,000 Indians have returned to India since February 28.
Officials also confirmed that 15 Indian crew members from the US-owned tanker Safesea Vishnu, which was attacked near Basra, Iraq, have been safely evacuated to a hotel in the city. One Indian crew member died in that attack, and arrangements are being made to repatriate his body to India.
Indian authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as tensions across West Asia remain high.