US Attack Near Oman Kills 3 Indian Seafarers: Third Merchant Vessel Hit In Four Days
Three Indian seafarers have died after a US military strike on the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Settebello near the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed on Thursday.
The tanker, carrying 24 Indian crew members, was targeted by US forces on June 10. While 21 Indian sailors were rescued by Omani authorities, three crew members who were initially reported missing were later found dead.
The deceased have been identified as deck cadet Aditya Sharma, engine fitter Shivanand Chaurasiya, and chief engineer Patnala Suresh.
Expressing grief over the tragedy, Sonowal described the deaths as a “profound loss to the maritime family” and assured full support to the victims’ families.
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 after bodies have been located and identified.
This is a profound loss to our maritime family. The…
— Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) June 11, 2026
He also directed officials to ensure the quick repatriation of the rescued crew members and the mortal remains of those who died.
India has strongly condemned the attack and lodged a formal protest with the United States. The Ministry of External Affairs summoned a senior US diplomat and called for greater safety for commercial shipping and seafarers in the region.
According to the US Central Command, the tanker was struck after allegedly failing to comply with instructions from American forces and attempting to transport Iranian oil through a US-enforced blockade.
However, concerns have grown over the safety of merchant vessels operating in the Gulf region amid rising tensions.
Meanwhile, reports emerged of another incident involving a merchant vessel with Indian crew members off the Oman coast. Indian authorities said they are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with local officials.
