US Military Releases Footage of Operation as India Seeks Answers Over Missing Crew Members
New Delhi: A dramatic video released by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has captured the moment an oil tanker carrying Indian crew members was struck near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, triggering a fire and sparking international concern over maritime security in the region.
The footage, shared by US authorities, shows the vessel being hit during an operation in the Gulf of Oman, with flames erupting shortly afterward. The incident has intensified diplomatic attention as India confirmed that several of its citizens were onboard the vessel when the strike occurred.
Missile Strike Triggers Fire on Oil Tanker
According to US military officials, the incident involved the Palau-flagged oil tanker Settebello, which was operating in the Gulf of Oman near the Omani port of Sohar.
Authorities stated that precision munitions were fired at the vessel's engine room after the tanker allegedly failed to comply with instructions issued by American forces.
The strike reportedly disabled the vessel and caused a fire to break out onboard.
The tanker was sailing approximately 20 nautical miles northeast of Sohar when the incident occurred.
CENTCOM Explains Operation
In an official statement, CENTCOM said the operation was conducted as part of an ongoing maritime enforcement effort in the region.
According to US authorities, the vessel allegedly violated restrictions related to an ongoing blockade and continued its voyage despite repeated instructions.
The statement noted that American forces targeted the ship's engine room using precision-guided munitions in order to disable its operations.
US officials emphasized that the action was aimed at stopping the vessel rather than causing broader damage.
24 Indian Crew Members Were Onboard
The tanker reportedly carried a total of 28 crew members at the time of the incident, including 24 Indian nationals.
The presence of Indian seafarers onboard immediately drew attention from New Delhi, prompting diplomatic engagement and emergency response efforts.
Indian authorities have been closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with relevant international agencies to gather information about the crew and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
India Condemns the Attack
Following the strike, the Indian government strongly condemned the attack on the commercial vessel and expressed concern over the safety of Indian crew members.
According to official statements, 21 Indian nationals were rescued following the incident, while three crew members were initially reported missing.
India also reiterated its call for restraint and diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation in the region.
Officials emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of civilian vessels and maritime workers operating in international waters.
Call for Peace and Stability in the Region
The Ministry of External Affairs stressed the need for immediate de-escalation and urged all parties to pursue diplomatic solutions.
The government also highlighted the importance of protecting international shipping routes and maintaining freedom of navigation in accordance with international law.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical maritime corridors, carrying a significant portion of global oil and energy shipments.
Any disruption in the region can have far-reaching implications for global trade and energy markets.
International Maritime Organization Raises Concern
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) also expressed concern over the incident.
In its statement, the global maritime body condemned any action that threatens the safety of seafarers and commercial shipping operations.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez emphasized that attacks on civilian vessels and maritime personnel are unacceptable and pose risks to international shipping security.
The organization called for efforts to ensure the safety of maritime workers and preserve stability along key global trade routes.
Growing Security Concerns Around the Strait of Hormuz
The latest incident comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region and renewed concerns over maritime security near the Strait of Hormuz.
The waterway is considered one of the world's most strategically important shipping lanes, connecting major oil-producing nations with international markets.
Security experts warn that incidents involving commercial vessels could impact shipping operations, insurance costs, and energy supplies if tensions continue to escalate.
Investigation and Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Authorities from multiple countries are continuing to assess the circumstances surrounding the strike, while efforts remain focused on ensuring the safety of crew members and maintaining stability in the region.
The incident has renewed international calls for diplomatic dialogue and measures aimed at safeguarding maritime commerce in one of the world's busiest and most sensitive waterways.
As investigations continue, governments and maritime organizations are expected to closely monitor developments and evaluate their impact on regional and global shipping operations.
(With inputs from agencies)