NEW DELHI, June 11, 2026 — Three Indian sailors were killed in a U.S. military strike on an oil tanker accused of violating sanctions on Iran, Indian authorities confirmed on Thursday.
According to Indian Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, the three crew members aboard the Palau-flagged tanker Settebello had initially been reported missing following the attack. The deaths were later confirmed after the recovery of two bodies, while details regarding the location of the third sailor’s remains were not immediately disclosed.
In a post on social media platform X, Sonowal expressed condolences and said the loss of the Indian crew members was a tragic development.
The incident occurred after the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) accused the tanker of attempting to transport Iranian oil in violation of ongoing American sanctions and maritime restrictions. U.S. forces reportedly targeted the vessel’s engine room in an effort to stop the ship.
The strike comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, where the United States and Iran have exchanged accusations and military actions in recent days. The latest casualty report is expected to increase diplomatic pressure on Washington and raise concerns over the safety of international merchant shipping operating in the region.
Indian authorities have not yet announced whether a formal protest or investigation will be launched regarding the deaths of the sailors.
The attack on the Settebello is the latest development in a rapidly escalating regional crisis involving Iran, the United States, and key maritime routes in the Gulf region.
