The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has claimed responsibility for the June 10 attack on the product tanker Settebello in the Gulf of Oman, saying the vessel was rendered inoperative after allegedly attempting to transport Iranian oil in violation of a US-imposed blockade.
According to CENTCOM, a US military aircraft targeted the ship’s engine room after the crew repeatedly failed to comply with instructions issued by American forces. The incident followed another attack in the Gulf of Oman involving the tanker Marivex, whose 24-member crew was later rescued by helicopters from the Omani Navy.
India strongly condemned the strike on the Settebello. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said 21 of the vessel’s 24 Indian crew members had been rescued, while three remain missing.
“The recurring attacks on merchant vessels in the region are deeply concerning and are a direct consequence of the ongoing conflict,” the ministry said in a statement. It reiterated India’s call for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and urged all parties to pursue a diplomatic solution to restore peace and stability.
The MEA also stressed that attacks on commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure must stop and called for the restoration of safe and unhindered navigation through international waterways in accordance with international law.
The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, expressed grave concern over the attack.
“I firmly condemn any act that endangers the lives of seafarers and the safety of international navigation. This is simply unacceptable,” Dominguez said. He extended his sympathies to the families of the three missing sailors and others awaiting news about crew members.
He added that all actions affecting international shipping must comply with international law and ensure the protection of life at sea. “The safety of seafarers is a shared responsibility and must remain a priority,” he said.
The IMO noted that since February 28, there have been 43 reported attacks on merchant vessels in and around the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in 11 confirmed seafarer fatalities.
