US Forces Target Palau-Flagged Tanker Settebello in Gulf of Oman
New Delhi, June 11, 2026: A video released by the US Central Command has captured the dramatic moment when American forces struck an oil tanker carrying 24 Indian crew members near the Strait of Hormuz. The attack has triggered a strong diplomatic response from India.
Key Highlights of the Incident
- US aircraft fired precision munitions into the engine room of the tanker Settebello
- The Palau-flagged vessel was sailing 20 nautical miles northeast of Oman’s Sohar port
- 28 crew members were onboard, including 24 Indians
- 21 Indian crew rescued so far; 3 Indians reported missing
- A major fire broke out after the strike
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US Central Command Statement
The US Central Command said the tanker was disabled after it allegedly violated the ongoing blockade by attempting to transport oil from Iran. This is the second consecutive day a vessel has been targeted in the region.
India’s Strong Reaction
The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack on the commercial vessel and issued a demarche to the US top diplomat in New Delhi. India has called for immediate de-escalation and restoration of free navigation in the region.
International Maritime Organization Condemns Attack
The IMO expressed deep concern over the incident, stating that any act endangering seafarers and international shipping is “simply unacceptable.”
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Timeline of the Incident
| Date & Time | Event |
|---|---|
| June 9, 2026 | US strikes tanker Settebello in Gulf of Oman |
| June 10, 2026 | Video of strike released by US Central Command |
| June 11, 2026 | India issues demarche to US |
Our Verdict
The US strike on a civilian tanker carrying Indian crew has escalated tensions in the already volatile West Asia region. While the US claims the action was necessary to enforce the blockade, India has rightly demanded protection for its seafarers and immediate de-escalation. Such incidents highlight the growing risk to commercial shipping and innocent lives in conflict zones. Free and safe navigation must be restored at the earliest.
Follow Nexus News Alert for the latest updates on the West Asia crisis, India’s diplomatic response, and international developments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What tanker was struck by the US near Strait of Hormuz?
The Palau-flagged oil tanker Settebello was targeted by US forces.
How many Indian crew members were on board?
24 Indian crew members were on board the tanker Settebello.
What is the current status of the Indian crew?
21 Indians have been rescued so far, while 3 are still reported missing.
Why did the US strike the tanker?
The US claimed the tanker violated the ongoing blockade by attempting to transport oil from Iran.
Where exactly did the incident occur?
The attack happened in the Gulf of Oman, about 20 nautical miles northeast of Oman’s Sohar port.
Has India responded to the incident?
Yes. India has strongly condemned the attack and issued a demarche to the US.
What did the International Maritime Organization say?
The IMO condemned the attack, calling any act endangering seafarers unacceptable.
Is this the first such incident in the region?
No. This is the second consecutive day a vessel has been targeted by US forces.
What is the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz?
Tensions remain high with increased risk to commercial shipping in the region.
What should Indian seafarers be cautious about?
Indian seafarers should avoid high-risk zones and follow all safety advisories issued by the government.
