Kumar Bahukhandi
An aircraft carrier at sea in this representational file photograph, which does not show the yacht involved in the incident off Yemen’s coast(File Photo)
Indian mission says the nationals are around Hodeidah and pledges continued assistance as it establishes the circumstances of the incident
Key Highlights
- All 14 Indian nationals involved in the yacht incident are reported safe.
- The Indian mission says they are located around Hodeidah in Yemen.
- Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree alleges Saudi forces targeted the vessel.
- The embassy has not confirmed responsibility for the reported incident.
New Delhi: All 14 Indian nationals aboard a yacht involved in an incident off Yemen’s coast are reported safe and located around Hodeidah, the Indian Embassy in Yemen said on Friday, October 23, 2026. The mission said it would continue working to ensure their well-being while seeking verified details about the incident.
Embassy Gives Safety Update
The Indian mission issued its update after reports emerged about a vessel carrying Indian nationals in the Red Sea.
“Reports suggest that all 14 Indian nationals are safe and located around Hodeidah in Yemen,” the mission said in its social media statement.
It added that efforts to safeguard their welfare would continue. The embassy had earlier said it was gathering further information and would provide all possible assistance to those involved.
Houthis Allege Attack Near Island
Some Arab media reports on Thursday quoted Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree as alleging that Saudi forces had targeted the yacht near Yuqar Island, also reported as Jabal Zuqar, off Yemen’s Red Sea coast.
Saree claimed that 14 Indian nationals were aboard and that Houthi forces were conducting rescue efforts. The allegation concerning Saudi involvement remains unverified; Saudi authorities had not responded to a Reuters request for comment on Thursday.
Mission Seeks to Establish Facts
The Indian Embassy has not attributed responsibility for the incident. Its efforts remain focused on establishing the circumstances and ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian nationals.
The latest update provides reassurance about those aboard, while the precise sequence of events remains to be established.
