India reported a new incident today involving the vessel MT Jalveer, which caught fire in the engine room near Shinas port, Oman. The Guinea-Bissau-flagged tanker’s fire was reported 21 nautical miles northeast of Sohar, according to UK Maritime Trade Operations [1, 2, 3]. The Indian Embassy in Oman said, "We have learnt of an incident involving a vessel off Shinas port of Oman, earlier today (Thursday)." They added they are "closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the local authorities for further details" [1, 3].
This marks the third incident involving vessels in the Gulf of Oman linked to US military actions this week [1, 2, 3]. On June 9, the US military disabled the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Settebello off the coast of Oman. The tanker had 24 Indian seafarers onboard [1, 2, 3]. Three Indian crew members initially reported missing after the attack have now been confirmed dead following the recovery and identification of their bodies [1, 2, 3].
The deceased Indian seafarers were identified as deck cadet Aditya Sharma, engine fitter Shivanand Chaurasiya, and Chief Engineer Patnala Suresh [2]. Indian Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal expressed his sorrow, saying, "It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello. Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing are now confirmed dead after bodies have been located and identified." He added that he has "directed officials to ensure immediate repatriation of the rescued crew members and swift return of the mortal remains of the deceased for their final rites" [2].
India summoned the US deputy chief of mission in New Delhi on June 10 to lodge a strong protest over the US attacks on vessels with Indian crew [1, 2]. The US Central Command said it disabled MT Settebello and another tanker, Marivex, for violating the US blockade against Iran [1, 2, 3].
India is continuing to coordinate through its Embassy in Muscat with local authorities as the situation involving MT Jalveer develops [1, 3].
