American military aircraft struck and disabled an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday, according to statements from regional authorities. The attack left the vessel adrift and without engine power. All 24 Indian crew members aboard were evacuated safely to Dubai.
Vessel Disabled and Crew Evacuated
The tanker, identified as the Marivex, sustained significant damage to its engine compartment following the strike. The vessel was approximately 40 nautical miles off the coast of Oman when the incident occurred. Maritime officials confirmed the crew activated emergency protocols and were picked up by rescue vessels within hours.
The Marivex was carrying a full cargo of crude oil at the time of the strike. Authorities reported no oil spill had occurred as of Thursday evening. The tanker remained in position while salvage teams were dispatched from Muscat.
US Military Confirms Strike
The Pentagon confirmed on Thursday that US forces carried out the strike against what it described as a vessel of concern. Military officials stated the tanker had been operating in waters that warranted further action. No further details regarding the specific nature of the threat were immediately disclosed.
The strike marks one of the most significant incidents involving US military action against commercial vessels in the region this year. The timing coincides with heightened tensions across the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters.
Indian Embassy Coordinates Response
The Indian Embassy in Muscat confirmed it had been in contact with the crew throughout the evacuation process. All 24 nationals were reported in good health. Embassy officials arranged transport to Dubai where the sailors were met by consular staff.
The Marivex crew comprised sailors from multiple Indian ports, including Mumbai, Kochi, and Mangalore. Family members in India were notified by the shipping company following confirmation of the successful evacuation.
Regional Tensions in the Gulf of Oman
The Gulf of Oman has remained a focal point of maritime security concerns for several years. Multiple incidents involving vessels transiting the waterway have drawn international attention. The latest strike follows a pattern of escalating activity in the region.
Shipping insurers have maintained elevated risk assessments for vessels passing through the area. Several major shipping companies have rerouted vessels to avoid the strait, adding significant time and cost to transit schedules.
Salvage Operations Underway
Omani maritime authorities confirmed salvage teams had reached the disabled tanker. The Marivex was being towed toward a safe anchorage near Muscat for damage assessment. Oil containment measures remained in place around the vessel as a precautionary measure.
The tanker owner, Marivex Shipping Ltd, stated it was cooperating fully with all relevant authorities. A company spokesperson said initial assessments suggested the vessel could be repaired, though a full inspection remained pending.
International Shipping Community on Alert
The strike has prompted immediate reactions from shipping industry bodies. Several associations called for enhanced security protocols for vessels operating in the region. Maritime insurers indicated they were reviewing coverage terms following the incident.
Regional governments have urged vessels to register their movements with naval coordination centres. The warnings come amid concerns about potential escalation in the contested waters.
What Happens Next
US military officials are expected to provide additional details about the strike within the coming days. The Marivex will undergo a full technical inspection once salvage operations conclude. Indian consular officials will coordinate repatriation for the crew following medical checkups in Dubai.
Shipping companies using the Gulf of Oman route should monitor advisories from their insurers and flag state authorities. The incident is likely to intensify ongoing debates about maritime security in one of the world's busiest oil transit corridors.
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Several major shipping companies have rerouted vessels to avoid the strait, adding significant time and cost to transit schedules.Salvage Operations UnderwayOmani maritime authorities confirmed salvage teams had reached the disabled tanker. A company spokesperson said initial assessments suggested the vessel could be repaired, though a full inspection remained pending.International Shipping Community on AlertThe strike has prompted immediate reactions from shipping industry bodies.
