Pope Francis thanks Oman, welcomes Father Tom home

India's ambassador to Oman Indra Mani Pandey was also pleased to see Uzhunnalil freed. "We are aware that he has been freed, and are happy that he is now out of danger," said Pandey.

"We would not like to share any more details about this at this time, and will wait for the Government of India to make a statement."

Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj also expressed relief on his release, saying, "I am happy to inform that Father Tom Uzhunnalil has been rescued."

Kerala's Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, added, "The news of the release of Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil, who was in the captivity of terrorists, is heartening. Wishing him well."

The Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia, which oversees the welfare and development of churches in the UAE, Oman and Yemen, was also relieved to see father Tom out of danger.

"We gratefully thank all those who prayed for the safe release of Fr. Uzhunnalil. More details are awaited and will be released when available," they said in a statement. "Thank the Lord and all those who worked on this."

In May, a video of the Indian priest was posted online and he was seen in poor health, calling for help.

"They are treating me well to the extent they are able," the white-bearded Uzhunnalil said, speaking slowly in English. "My health condition is deteriorating quickly and I require hospitalisation as early as possible," he added in the recording.