US Strikes Ship Off Oman After Crew Ignores Order.
US Central Command posted the news on X.
A Precision Strike
An aircraft fired “precision munitions” into the engine room of a ship. The vessel was the Palau-flagged Settebello. The action happened after the crew repeatedly failed to comply with American directions.
Indian Crew Affected
India’s government said three Indian sailors are missing. However, 21 Indian crew members have been rescued. The attack took place off the coast of Oman. India added that the “targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end”.
The Blockade Context
The US military blocked access to Iran’s ports earlier. Tehran had effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz. Some 20% of the world’s oil and gas supplies pass through that waterway. The closure happened during the ongoing conflict. Since initiating the blockade on 13 April, US forces have disabled eight vessels. They have also redirected 134 others, according to Centcom.
Diplomatic Fallout
Following the latest incident, India summoned the deputy head of the US mission in Delhi. Officials confirmed this to the BBC. The diplomatic tension is rising.
