Three Indian seafarers have been confirmed dead following a U.S. attack on the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello off the coast of Oman, amid rising maritime tensions in the region.
MUSCAT/NEW DELHI – In a tragic escalation of maritime tensions, three Indian seafarers have been confirmed dead following an attack on the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello off the coast of Oman. This incident marks the deadliest of three recent maritime emergencies involving vessels carrying Indian crew members in the region.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the fatalities, stating that the three sailors, initially reported missing, had been located and identified. “It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello. Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing are now confirmed dead,” Sonowal remarked.
The MT Settebello was carrying a total of 28 crew members, 24 of whom were Indian nationals. Following the attack, 21 Indian crew members were rescued. The Indian government is currently arranging the repatriation of both the survivors and the remains of the deceased sailors.
According to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), U.S. forces disabled the tanker in the Gulf of Oman after the crew failed to comply with orders from American forces. CENTCOM reported that a U.S. military aircraft fired precision munitions into the tanker’s engine room, leading to the incident.
This attack on the Settebello is part of a troubling pattern of maritime incidents in the region. Earlier in the week, the MT Marivex, another Palau-flagged tanker carrying 24 Indian seafarers, suffered a fire south of the Strait of Hormuz. Fortunately, all crew members were reported safe, although reports later suggested that this incident was also linked to U.S. military action in the Gulf of Oman.
Additionally, on June 11, the MT Jalveer, a Guinea-Bissau-flagged vessel with 20 Indian crew members, came under attack near Oman’s Shinas Port. All crew members were evacuated safely, with assistance from the Royal Navy of Oman.
In total, the three vessels involved in these incidents carried 68 Indian seafarers. While 65 were rescued without injury, the loss of three lives aboard the MT Settebello has raised significant concerns.
The Indian government has strongly condemned the attack on the commercial vessel, expressing deep concern over the ongoing incidents affecting shipping in the region. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “The continuing attacks on shipping in the region are deeply worrisome and are a direct consequence of the ongoing conflict there. These attacks must cease, and we also call for dialogue and diplomacy to ensure an early return to peace and stability in the region.”
The Ministry of External Affairs has reiterated its call for immediate de-escalation and has appealed for a diplomatic solution to restore peace and stability in the area.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has also expressed alarm over the increasing number of incidents affecting shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz. The organization has called for a full and transparent investigation into the Settebello incident, highlighting the need for accountability in maritime operations.
According to the IMO, dozens of attacks on international shipping have been recorded in the region since late February, underscoring the growing risks for commercial vessels caught in geopolitical tensions.
In light of these developments, Indian officials have emphasized that the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers remain a top priority. The government is actively monitoring the situation and is committed to ensuring the protection of its nationals at sea.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community is urged to address the underlying issues contributing to maritime insecurity in the region, fostering dialogue and cooperation to prevent further tragedies.
According to IANS, the implications of these incidents extend beyond the immediate loss of life, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced maritime security and diplomatic engagement in the region.