New Delhi, June 11, 2026: India has expressed serious concern after an attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman left three Indian crew members missing. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), 24 Indian crew members were on board the vessel, of whom 21 have been rescued while search and rescue operations continue for the remaining three.

The Indian government has condemned the attack and summoned the United States Chargé d’Affaires in New Delhi to convey its concerns and seek clarification regarding the incident.

Reports indicate that the vessel sustained significant damage during the incident, with distress communications mentioning onboard fire and damage to critical sections of the ship. Emergency response efforts were subsequently launched by Omani authorities and other agencies.

According to reports, the vessel may have been struck during a U.S. operation linked to maritime enforcement measures in the region. U.S. officials have stated that the action was connected to efforts involving sanctions and maritime restrictions related to Iranian oil trade.

India has emphasized the importance of protecting civilian seafarers and ensuring the safety of commercial shipping routes in international waters. The MEA also reiterated its call for de-escalation of regional tensions and the protection of maritime commerce.

The incident has renewed concerns about the security of commercial vessels operating in the Gulf of Oman and the wider region, where ongoing geopolitical tensions have increased risks to maritime traffic.