Tensions in the Gulf region escalated further after the United States publicly acknowledged striking MT Jalveer, a Guinea-Bissau-flagged tanker carrying Indian crew members, and released footage of the operation. According to the US military, the vessel was targeted after allegedly attempting to transport Iranian oil in violation of an American-imposed naval blockade.
The incident marks the third commercial vessel disabled by US forces in the region within a week, underscoring the growing volatility in one of the world’s most important maritime corridors.
US says the vessel ignored repeated warnings
According to News 18, in a statement, US Central Command said the strike took place in the Gulf of Oman and involved two Hellfire missiles aimed at the ship’s engine room. American officials claimed the crew repeatedly failed to comply with instructions issued by US forces before the attack was authorised.
The military described the operation as part of ongoing efforts to enforce sanctions and restrictions related to Iranian oil exports. Footage released by the US reportedly showed the precision strike targeting the vessel’s propulsion systems rather than the crew.
The attack follows similar incidents involving the tankers MT Marivex and MV Settebello, both of which were also targeted amid rising regional tensions linked to Iran.
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India lodges strong diplomatic protest
According to News 18, the developments have triggered a firm response from India, which expressed serious concern over attacks on commercial vessels carrying Indian nationals.
The Ministry of External Affairs said New Delhi had summoned the US Chargé d’Affaires and conveyed its strong protest over the incidents. India emphasised that the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers remained a top priority and called for an immediate halt to actions endangering civilian maritime personnel.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India had urged all parties to pursue dialogue and diplomacy while ensuring uninterrupted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law.
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— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) June 11, 2026
Growing concerns for Indian sailors
According to News 18, the latest strike has heightened anxiety among India’s maritime community, with thousands of Indian seafarers working aboard commercial vessels operating across the Gulf region.
Earlier this week, the tanker MT Marivex, carrying 24 Indian crew members, was attacked in the Gulf of Oman, though all personnel were safely evacuated. Another vessel, MV Settebello, was struck by a missile near Sohar, resulting in casualties that included Indian sailors.
As tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to affect shipping lanes, concerns are mounting over the security of commercial maritime traffic in the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial artery for global energy supplies and international trade.
