U.S. forces fired a precision munition at the unladen oil tanker MT Marivex in the Gulf of Oman on 8 June, triggering a fire that caused the vessel to sink.
Indian authorities reported that all 24 seafarers, whose nationality is Indian, were rescued by Omani‑operated helicopters to Masirah Island and are safe.
The incident follows heightened U.S‑Iran tensions. U.S. Central Command stated that the tanker violated a blockade against Iran by attempting to sail to an Iranian port, prompting the strike.
Prior to the incident, the tanker had been sanctioned by the U.S. for alleged links to Iran. Indian shipping unions confirmed the crew’s safety and urged swift support for their families.
