Three Indian Sailors Missing Following Oil Tanker Attack Near Oman

The projectile pierced the engine room of the tanker, sparking a fire that forced the crew to abandon the affected areas. India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the incident, noting that the embassy in Muscat is coordinating with Omani authorities to facilitate ongoing search and rescue efforts across the waters.

British maritime security firm Ambrey identified the strike as a potential byproduct of the escalating US naval blockade against Iranian shipping. This tactical pattern—directing crews to the bow before striking the stern—aligns with recent maneuvers in the region. Since mid-April, when Washington moved to restrict Iran-linked vessels, the waterway has become increasingly volatile. US Central Command reports suggest over 130 ships have been redirected and seven disabled during this period. The Settebello attack follows a series of similar strikes near the UAE, Kuwait, and Oman, underscoring the mounting risks for international merchant fleets navigating one of the world's most critical energy corridors.