At least two crew members are reported missing and one injured following the U.S. military’s disabling of the tanker M/T Settebello in the Gulf of Oman, marking the first casualties among seafarers in the U.S. enforcement of its maritime blockade against Iran. The incident occurred shortly after 11 p.m. on June 9, when U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that a U.S. aircraft targeted the vessel’s engine room after the crew disregarded orders while navigating the area.
The blockade, aimed at halting Iranian oil exports, has led to heightened tensions in maritime operations. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed an engine fire aboard the Settebello, which prompted local authorities to initiate evacuation efforts after receiving distress signals. Reports indicate that at least one crew member was injured, while two others remain unaccounted for. In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed the rescue of 21 Indian seafarers and is collaborating with Omani authorities regarding the ongoing search.
The incident raises concerns over the safety of civilian maritime operations, with the International Maritime Organization warning that conditions in the Strait of Hormuz are dangerously precarious. U.S. military operations have escalated, having disabled eight vessels and redirected numerous others since the blockade began on April 13. While President Trump hailed the blockade as unprecedentedly effective, the newly reported casualties could intensify scrutiny on the U.S. enforcement actions, spotlighting the risks faced by commercial shipping in a volatile region.
