US strikes Iran-bound tanker near Oman, sparking India protest over missing crew
The US military disabled the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman after it allegedly violated a US blockade on Iranian oil, according to US Central Command. The attack left three Indian crew members missing and sparked a diplomatic protest from New Delhi, highlighting escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
What happened to the MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman?
A US warplane fired precision munitions into the engine room of the MT Settebello on Wednesday, US Central Command reported via X. The military stated the aircraft attacked the vessel after the crew repeatedly ignored directions from American forces. The ship was attempting to transport Iranian oil in violation of a US-imposed blockade.
British maritime security firm Vanguard Tech reported that the ship transmitted a distress call indicating its engine room had been struck by a missile while operating off Sohar. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency confirmed the incident occurred 20 nautical miles northeast of Sohar, Oman, reporting a fire in the engine room and the subsequent evacuation of the crew.
How is India responding to the US attack?
The Indian government summoned the senior US diplomat in New Delhi on Wednesday to lodge a “strong protest,” according to the Indian foreign ministry. The protest follows reports that three Indian crew members are missing after the strike.
While 21 Indian crew members were rescued from the commercial vessel, the foreign ministry issued a statement condemning the attack. Earlier reports from UKMTO indicated one casualty and two crew members missing, though Indian officials remain focused on the three unaccounted-for sailors.
Why are there rival blockades in the Strait of Hormuz?
The attack on the MT Settebello is part of a broader conflict that began on February 28. Currently, two opposing blockades are operating in the waterway. Tehran has halted nearly all cargo ship traffic through the strait, while the US has blockaded all Iranian vessels and ports.
This “war of blockades” has led to a surge in precision strikes and seizures. US Central Command has recently targeted other vessels for defying the blockade, including the Botswana-flagged MT Lexie and the Palau-flagged MT Marivex, both of which were hit in their engine rooms.
In contrast, Iran’s tactics have involved capturing ships and using drones. Iran captured the tanker Ocean Koi in May, claiming the ship was disrupting Iranian interests. Iranian drones have also struck the Omani port of Sohar earlier in the conflict.
- US Strategy: Precision munitions targeting engine rooms to disable vessels (e.g., MT Settebello, MT Lexie).
- Iranian Strategy: Total traffic halts, drone strikes on ports (Sohar), and physical seizure of vessels (Ocean Koi).
What happens next for maritime security in the region?
The conflict is shifting from a bilateral dispute to a multilateral crisis. The involvement of Palau- and Botswana-flagged ships, combined with Indian crew casualties, increases the risk of diplomatic friction between the US and neutral nations.
Regional stability now depends heavily on Oman, which continues to act as a mediating channel between Washington and Tehran. However, Iran’s recent claims of regulatory control over waters extending into the UAE and Oman have complicated this. Five Gulf states have already warned shipping companies via the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to ignore these Iranian claims.
If Iran follows through on threats to introduce transit tolls for passing ships—a move Oman has already rejected as illegal—shipping insurance rates are likely to spike, potentially disrupting global energy prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which ship was attacked in the Gulf of Oman?
The MT Settebello, a Palau-flagged tanker, was disabled by a US warplane after allegedly violating a US blockade on Iranian oil.
Why did the US attack the tanker?
According to US Central Command, the vessel was transporting oil from Iran in violation of a blockade and failed to comply with directions from American forces.
Are there other ships affected by these blockades?
Yes. US Central Command previously disabled the MT Lexie (Botswana-flagged) and the MT Marivex (Palau-flagged). Iran has captured the Ocean Koi and struck ports in Oman.
What is the role of the Strait of Hormuz?
It is a critical waterway that carries approximately 20% of the world’s oil and LNG shipments.
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