India condemned attacks on three oil tankers with Indian crew members off the coast of Oman occurring over a three-day period [1].
These incidents heighten concerns over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy shipments. The targeting of civilian vessels threatens the stability of international commerce, and the safety of merchant sailors.
The Ministry of External Affairs reported that the attacks took place in early June 2024 [2]. The Indian government subsequently addressed the United Nations to stress the importance of freedom of navigation and the protection of shipping lanes [1].
Among the vessels targeted were the M/T Jalveer and the M/T Settebello [2]. While some reports indicated crew safety in certain incidents, other data shows that three Indian sailors died during the attack on the M/T Settebello [3].
Indian officials framed the incidents as a direct threat to maritime commerce [2]. The government said the attacks occurred amid escalating regional tensions in the Gulf region.
New Delhi called for a coordinated international response to ensure that civilian shipping is not targeted during regional conflicts [1]. The ministry said that the safety of Indian seafarers remains a primary concern as they operate in high-risk waters.
“Three Indian-crewed oil tankers were attacked off the coast of Oman within three days.”
The concentration of three attacks within a 72-hour window suggests a targeted escalation in the Strait of Hormuz. By bringing the issue to the United Nations, India is shifting from a purely bilateral security approach to seeking a multilateral guarantee for the safety of its commercial fleet, which is heavily exposed to regional volatility in the Gulf.
