Islamabad: (Web Desk) The United States military has confirmed carrying out an operation against the oil tanker MT Marivex in the Gulf of Oman, claiming the vessel attempted to sail to an Iranian port in violation of an ongoing naval blockade imposed around Iran.
The Palau-flagged tanker was operating near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz when it was struck off the Omani coast. A fire was reported onboard, prompting emergency evacuation procedures.
All 24 Indian crew members aboard the vessel were rescued safely after the ship issued a distress signal. According to reports, helicopters from the Indian Navy assisted in evacuating the sailors, while Omani authorities also supported the rescue operation.
In a statement, United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said the tanker was disabled after allegedly failing to comply with directions issued by US forces and attempting to proceed toward an Iranian port.
CENTCOM stated that an F/A-18 Super Hornet launched from the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) fired a precision munition targeting the vessel’s engineering and steering systems, rendering it incapable of continuing its voyage.
The command added that since the blockade began on April 13, it has disabled seven vessels deemed non-compliant, redirected more than 130 ships, and allowed dozens of vessels carrying humanitarian assistance to proceed.
Responding to the incident, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that all crew members were Indian nationals and had been rescued safely.
He said India’s embassy coordinated with Omani authorities throughout the rescue operation and thanked the government of Oman for its assistance in ensuring the sailors’ safety.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy shipping routes. Ongoing regional instability has contributed to concerns over maritime security and global energy supplies, with developments in the area closely watched by international markets.
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