Hyderabad, June 14 -- A search and rescue operation is underway for 14 Indian nationals after a dhow began sinking off the coast of Oman on Sunday, June 14, with the US Navy and a nearby cargo vessel providing assistance, according to media reports.

The vessel reportedly encountered trouble about 80 nautical miles east of Ras Al Hadd, prompting the US Navy to alert shore authorities and the Indian Navy.

A US Navy P-8 maritime patrol aircraft responded to the distress call and deployed a life raft near the dhow. The aircraft remained at the scene while monitoring the situation as those on board moved onto the raft.

The US Navy also requested assistance from MV Jabal Ali 9, a cargo vessel registered in Saint Kitts and Nevis. The ship alt...