Tensions Escalate in Gulf: Third Ship, MT Jalveer, Hit Near Strait Of Hormuz With Indian Crew Aboard

New Delhi: Amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, a third ship, MT Jalveer, carrying Indian crew has reportedly come under attack off the coast of Oman, which has raised fresh concerns over the safety of ships navigatiing the strategically important region, Strait of Hormuz. 

Where did the incident happen?

Another ship, MT Jalveer, has been involved in an incident off the coast of Oman. The incident involves MT Jalveer, a commercial tanker, off the Omani port of Shinas. It appears that the ship has been struck.

The video shows smoke bellowing from the ship, that reportedly may have 20 Indian sailors.

How many are injured?

It is not yet known whether anyone was injured or the extent of the damage to the ship. Authorities are monitoring the situation. This is the third attack on a ship near the Strait of Hormuz in three days. Previously, two ships carrying Indians were attacked.

The Indian Embassy in Oman said it had received information about the incident involving a ship near the port of Shinas. The embassy is in contact with local authorities and is monitoring the situation.

What about the other attack?

Earlier on Wednesday, a cargo ship was attacked off the coast of Oman. Three Indian sailors were killed in this US attack. Their bodies have been recovered and identified. 21 Indian sailors have been rescued. The attack occurred on the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Settebello. 

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal stated that the incident on the MT Settebello is deeply tragic. He stated that the government stands with the families of the deceased and will provide all possible assistance. The minister directed officials to bring the rescued Indian sailors back to India as soon as possible and to expedite the return of the bodies of the deceased for final rites.

"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 two bodies were recovered... I have 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," Sonowal said in a post on X.

Two days earlier, the US Navy had attacked another ship carrying 24 Indians. The US military has confirmed the attack. The US said the ship was carrying oil from Iran and was violating the US blockade on Iranian ports. This is why it was attacked.