The Indian Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the Court of First Instance in Qatar issued a ruling on Thursday against eight Indian nationals who were working in the country, without clarifying the circumstances of this ruling.

The Financial Times newspaper reported that the judiciary in Qatar had sentenced to death 8 former officers in the Indian Navy after convicting them of spying for Israel regarding the Qatari submarine program.

The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi expressed its shock at this ruling, saying on its website, “We are deeply shocked by the death penalty ruling and await the detailed ruling.”

She added: “We are in contact with family members and the legal team, and are exploring all legal options,” continuing: “We attach great importance to this case, and are following it closely. We will continue to provide all consular and legal assistance. We will also discuss the ruling with the Qatari authorities.”

The Financial Times quoted a source it described as familiar with the case, saying that the eight Indians are accused of spying for Israel, and that they can appeal the sentences issued against them.

The newspaper reported that the Indian government's statement confirmed that the eight convicts were arrested in Qatar in August last year, highlighting that it had contacted Israel but did not respond to a request for comment.