Two Emirati oil tankers, the Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, were struck by Iranian cruise missiles in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in the death of one Indian crew member and injuries to eight others, including Indian and Ukrainian nationals. The attack, which occurred in Omani territorial waters, caused material damage and fires on both vessels, which have since been brought under control. The UAE Ministry of Defence condemned the incident as a “blatant attack” and asserted its right to respond to the escalation, emphasizing its preparedness to address any threats to national security. Separately, the UK Maritime Trade Operations reported a tanker being hit by an unknown projectile northeast of Oman, though it remained unconfirmed if this was the same incident.
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Three Indian seafarers were killed in a US strike on an oil tanker transiting the Sea of Oman, leading to public outrage in India and a diplomatic summons of Washington’s Chargé d’Affaires. The incident, which involved a Palau-flagged vessel laden with Iranian oil, marks the first confirmed deaths of seafarers in US strikes enforcing the blockade on Iranian ports, raising concerns about Indian nationals becoming collateral damage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is under pressure to denounce the attack ahead of his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the G7 summit, while families of the deceased seafarers are seeking answers.
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Tragically, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing after a U.S. military strike on the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello have been confirmed deceased following the recovery of two additional bodies. The U.S. Central Command stated the “precision” strike was a response to the vessel’s alleged non-compliance and attempted transport of Iranian oil in violation of a blockade. India has since lodged a strong protest with Washington, highlighting concerns over the targeting of commercial shipping and the safety of its seafarers.
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John Q. Hosedrinker