SRINAGAR: All three Indian seafarers who were previously reported missing following a US military strike on a commercial vessel near the Strait of Hormuz have been confirmed dead, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said on Thursday.
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.
This is a profound loss to our maritime family. The…
— Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) June 11, 2026
The sailors were among 24 Indian crew members aboard the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello, which was struck while transiting the Gulf of Oman amid heightened regional tensions. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said 21 crew members were rescued during coordinated search and rescue operations conducted with Omani authorities, while three had initially remained unaccounted for.
Sonowal said earlier reports of two fatalities and one missing crew member had now been revised after the recovery of additional bodies, confirming that all three missing sailors had died. He said arrangements were being made for the repatriation of the surviving crew and the mortal remains of the deceased.
In a statement on social media platform X, Sonowal described the incident as “deeply unfortunate” and confirmed he had instructed officials to ensure the swift return of the bodies for final rites.
Earlier, the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) said communication with the vessel had been disrupted following the strike, with preliminary information indicating casualties among the crew.
According to Indian government sources, New Delhi has raised the matter with Washington and lodged a strong protest, including summoning the US deputy chief of mission, Reuters reported.
The United States said its forces carried out a “precision” strike on the vessel after it allegedly failed to comply with instructions and was carrying oil from Iran. The incident has further heightened concerns over maritime security in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping corridor.
