bbc.com 5 hours ago URGENCY: 8/10

US Military Strikes Tanker, Three Indian Sailors Missing

The US military has disabled a tanker in the Gulf of Oman, claiming it violated a blockade. Three Indian sailors are missing, raising concerns over escalating tensions in the region.

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US Military Strikes Tanker, Three Indian Sailors Missing

Incident Overview

The US Central Command has confirmed that it targeted the Palau-flagged tanker Settebello in the Gulf of Oman, alleging it was attempting to transport oil from Iran. This strike comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran, with the US military enforcing a blockade that has already seen multiple vessels disabled since April.

Following the attack, India's government reported that three Indian sailors are missing while 21 crew members were rescued. The Indian authorities have condemned the targeting of commercial shipping, emphasizing the need for an end to such actions in the region.

  • Key points:
  • The US military has disabled eight vessels since the blockade began.
  • The Settebello was struck after failing to comply with US directives.
  • Tensions between Iran and the US continue to escalate, with threats exchanged by both sides.
This incident underscores the fragile state of maritime security in the Gulf, where the conflict has drawn in multiple nations and raised fears of broader confrontations.