From Oman’s coast to the Strait of Hormuz, maritime zones have turned dangerous. Within three days, three Indian merchant vessels came under attack. The first incident targeted MT Marivex on 8 June, flying the Palau flag. Twenty-four Indian sailors were aboard. U.S. Central Command claimed the vessel violated U.S. sanctions while heading toward Iran. Omani authorities rescued all sailors safely.
The second attack occurred overnight between 9 and 10 June. MT Setebelo, also flagged in Palau, carried 24 Indian sailors. U.S. fighter jets fired precise missiles at the engine room. Twenty-one sailors survived, but three died. Indian Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the fatalities and ordered immediate repatriation of the rescued sailors.
The third incident happened on 11 June involving MT Jalveer near Shinas port, Oman. About 20 Indian sailors were aboard. Flames broke out in the engine room, but authorities are still verifying the cause. The Indian Embassy coordinated with Omani officials to ensure sailor safety. This marked the third attack in three days near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Context: US-Iran Tensions and Sanctions
The attacks stem from the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict. In February 2026, the war escalated after U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran. Iran responded by closing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route handling 20% of global oil and gas supply.
From 13 April, the U.S. imposed strict sanctions, targeting ships attempting to transport Iranian oil. To date, eight vessels have been destroyed, 134 redirected, and only 42 humanitarian ships allowed passage. Indian tankers violated U.S. sanctions while carrying oil from Iranian ports, prompting these precise military strikes.
India’s Response and Diplomacy
The Indian government has acted decisively but cautiously. On 10 June, Deputy Chief of Mission Jason Meeks was summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs. Additional Secretary for America, Nagraj Naidu, lodged a strong protest over sailor safety. India demanded the attacks stop, freedom of international maritime navigation, and a diplomatic solution to reduce tensions.
Challenges for India
India faces challenges on three fronts. First, sailor safety is at risk. Indian seafarers constitute 15-20% of the global merchant navy workforce. Thousands work daily from the Gulf to the Strait of Hormuz. These three attacks alone highlight a severe threat to Indian nationals abroad.
Second, energy supply disruption is critical. The Strait of Hormuz handles nearly 20 million barrels of oil daily. India imports 88-90% of its energy requirements, including 40-50% of crude oil, 60% of LPG, and 55-60% of LNG, through this strait. Any prolonged closure threatens cooking gas, fuel, and industrial energy needs.
Third, diplomatic relations with the U.S. are delicate. India must protest aggressively while maintaining strategic partnerships. Experts warn that ongoing U.S.-Iran military escalation further complicates maritime and energy security.
Strategic Measures and Reserves
India maintains strategic reserves of crude oil for 76 days and LPG for 25-30 days. Alternative supply routes exist but are costlier and slower, increasing logistics expenses. Rising geopolitical tensions require India to reassess maritime security protocols and energy imports.
