India Raises Concern After Oman Tanker Strike

Three Indian seafarers have been confirmed dead after a United States strike on the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Settebello off the coast of Oman, raising serious concerns over the safety of Indian crew members working on commercial vessels in the Gulf region.

The tanker had 24 Indian crew members on board when it was struck near the Gulf of Oman. According to official updates, 21 Indian sailors were rescued, while three who were initially reported missing were later confirmed dead.

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal described the incident as a tragic loss for India’s maritime community. He said the government would support the families of the deceased and ensure the repatriation of the rescued sailors as well as the return of the mortal remains.

India Condemns Attack On Commercial Vessel

India has strongly condemned the strike on the commercial vessel and raised concerns over the safety of Indian nationals working aboard ships in the region.

The Ministry of External Affairs said the attack on MT Settebello off the Omani coast was deeply concerning, especially at a time when tensions in West Asia have already affected shipping routes. India also urged all sides to reduce tensions and work towards a diplomatic solution.

New Delhi also lodged a strong protest with the United States over the incident. Indian officials conveyed that attacks endangering Indian seafarers are unacceptable and stressed the need to protect civilian crew members on commercial vessels.

US Says Tanker Failed To Follow Instructions

The United States has said its military carried out the strike after the vessel allegedly failed to comply with instructions from American forces. US officials described the action as part of their ongoing maritime operation in the region.

However, the incident has triggered serious questions over whether military action near busy shipping routes is putting civilian seafarers at risk. Maritime unions and seafarer groups have also raised concerns over the safety of crew members who work in conflict-hit waters.

Fresh Vessel Incident Reported Near Shinas Port

The concern grew further after the Indian Embassy in Oman said it was monitoring another vessel incident off Shinas port. The embassy said it was coordinating with local authorities for more details.

So far, no confirmed information has been released about the identity of the vessel, the crew on board or the nature of the emergency. Officials are still gathering details from Omani authorities.

The fresh report comes just a day after the deaths of the three Indian seafarers on MT Settebello were confirmed, adding to fears over maritime security in the Gulf.

Safety Of Indian Seafarers In Focus

The Gulf of Oman and nearby Strait of Hormuz are among the world’s most important shipping routes, especially for oil and energy transport. Any escalation in this area can affect commercial shipping, global energy movement, and the safety of thousands of seafarers.

For India, the issue is especially sensitive because a large number of Indian sailors work on international merchant vessels. The latest incidents have placed renewed focus on emergency coordination, crew safety, communication with ships, and diplomatic response during maritime conflicts.

As Indian and Omani authorities continue to monitor the situation, the government is expected to focus on the safe return of rescued crew members, support for the bereaved families, and protection of Indian nationals working at sea.