ibn sultan
New Delhi, June 11: Two Indian crew members aboard the oil tanker MT Settebello were killed and another remains missing after the vessel was struck by US forces off the coast of Oman, according to the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI).
The Palau-flagged tanker reportedly came under attack after allegedly attempting to breach a US-enforced maritime blockade near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
FSUI General Secretary Manoj Yadav said communication with the vessel has been disrupted. According to the information received so far, two Indian sailors, including a cadet and a fitter, lost their lives in the incident, while the ship’s Chief Engineer remains missing.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the attack and expressed concern for the safety of Indian nationals onboard. The ministry stated that 21 of the 24 Indian crew members have been rescued, while search operations continue for the missing sailor.
India’s Embassy in Oman is coordinating closely with local authorities and monitoring rescue efforts. The MEA also called for immediate de-escalation in the region, warning that continued attacks on commercial shipping threaten regional stability and international trade.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about the safety of seafarers operating in the Gulf region amid escalating tensions.
