Fired Two Hellfire Missiles: US Confirms Attack On 3rd Oil Vessel Carrying Indian Crew Members
Why did US forces fire Hellfire missiles at a tanker carrying 20 Indian crew members? As tensions soar in the Strait of Hormuz, Washington's admission has triggered fresh concerns over maritime safety.
US Confirms Attack On 3rd Oil Vessel Carrying Indian Crew Members (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: The United States has confirmed carrying out a missile strike on MT Jalveer, an oil tanker carrying 20 Indian crew members, in the Gulf of Oman after alleging that the vessel violated its naval blockade against Iran. The incident marks the third attack on a commercial vessel involving Indian sailors within three days, escalating concerns over maritime safety in the region.
Two Hellfire Missiles Fired at MT Jalveer
According to a statement released by the US Central Command (CENTCOM), American forces targeted the Guinea-Bissau-flagged tanker late on June 10. CENTCOM claimed the vessel was attempting to transport Iranian oil in violation of the US-imposed blockade.
The US military said an aircraft fired two Hellfire missiles into the ship’s engine room after the crew allegedly failed to comply with repeated instructions from American forces. Footage of the operation was also released by CENTCOM.
All Indian Crew Members Rescued
Despite the attack, all 20 Indian crew members onboard MT Jalveer were safely rescued. The vessel was disabled but no fatalities among the crew were reported.
The incident follows earlier strikes on the Palau-flagged vessels MT Marivex and MT Settebello earlier this week. The attack on Settebello had already drawn strong reactions from India after Indian nationals were affected.
US Tightens Blockade Enforcement
CENTCOM stated that since launching the blockade against Iran on April 13, US forces have disabled nine vessels accused of violating restrictions, redirected 135 ships that complied with orders and allowed 42 humanitarian aid vessels to pass.
The United States maintains that the blockade is aimed at restricting Iranian oil exports amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel and the US.
The latest strike comes amid growing concern in New Delhi over the safety of Indian seafarers working in the Gulf region. India has already condemned recent attacks on commercial shipping and urged all sides to exercise restraint.
The Ministry of External Affairs has called for dialogue and diplomacy to restore stability, while stressing that the safety and welfare of Indian crew members remain a top priority.
With tensions rising around the Strait of Hormuz one of the world's most critical energy corridors the risk to international shipping and thousands of seafarers continues to grow.
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